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The Gospel Messenger 



"THY KINGDOM COME "— M.«.6 ; io ; uu it= 2 



" Till we all attain unto ... the stature ol 
the fulness of Christ."— Eph. 4: 13. 



Vol. 73 



Elgin, 111., January 5, 1924 



No. 1 



In This Number portant action, right up to you and me. That is a for- 

""^"'7 , r- . , „ tunate feature of the case. It is pleasant to have con- 

Thc Personal Factor in the Proffram 1 . r ,. . ^ 

From One Lap to Another i trol ot things. Love of power is innate and universal. 

why NTBicn'^oSw^'theNeVd!'"::;!:'.::'.:;:::!:::"::::;:: ! Here is our opportunity, you, of course, are an right 

Amone the Churches 8 on this point. You are already interested. You, brother 

Around the World , 9 , J 

The Quiet Hour, v ... 9 or sister reader, you who are doing me the honor to 

our Forward Movement— read these words, you are giving your first thought to 

Tfcfcfarsfc'Trotrrsrn s the crmrch program and ahove all things want to see 

MiVsiorT Notes' Vc "d"b \ S th ' S succee ^- ■ But y° u know now li * 5 with tne others 

c n*L7tL-7L m - ' '.' : 5 in y° ur congregation.. They are nice people, good 

- a New Day (Poem) 2 P e °pl e - The police never have any trouble with them. 

Learnt to liSk.^By' D*' C Verier A ' ^"^ 2 And they Set g °° d tableS ' BUt their heai " tS aFe n0C 

Jesus iis a Conversationalist. , By e. f. Sherfy, ..'. ""'! 3 aglow, as yours is, with the fervor of the early church. 

A Reasonable and Practical Faith. By Ernest G. Hoff 3 t, j . ,. , L , - , ■ , , 

Honor Them! By Maud Mohicr Trimmer 4 A ney do not seem to have anything which they want 

vtL^sthoS =mS By £ a Fi:: : . 4 everybody else to have They contemplate with a good 

The Bridgewater-Daieviiie System of Schools. b>- jno. s." Fiory, 10 deal of satisfaction the assurance of their eternal safety, 

The Round Table— but they are not much troubled, as you are, that so 

CcV.ter^:"*'' n By Archer w.-iia;; 6 nian Y others do not have this. Some of them read their 

M^ H -^tc Si " ned " i Ro ™- 5 , : ¥)' t , By F dyth Hillery Hay> " 6 Bibles occasionally and some read it every day, but the 

Midnight Musings. By Sarah M. Saunders 6 - J J J> 

one Way toTiease Him. By Elsie k. Sanger, 6 Great Commission and the Second Commandment of 

Witnesses for Christ. By Joseph D. Reish, 6 t i_ r j . ,1 m, 

"i Can't Get in." By w. h. Gaunt, 6 Jesus have a. tar away sound to them. The ignorance 

Home and Family— and misery of the multitudes sometimes disturbs their 

Tell Her Set (Poem). Selected by Anna stchman 7 serenity for an instant, but not enough to cause them 

Out at Uncle Joe and Aunt Margaret's, By Nora Berkebile, .. 7 , , , , ,. , 

"Thoughtful Anne." By Leo Lillian Wise 7 to undertake remedial measures. 

Now seeing how you feel about all this, what would 
happen if you would cultivate a closer companionship 
with your indifferent brethren ? Do you think they could 
remain so under the impact of your own glowing spirit- 
ual passion? When they see that your heart is set on 
the furthering of the Kingdom, when they see what sac- 
rifices of carnal comfort and personal convenience you 
are constantly making to this end, and, most of all, 
when they see the bright light in your face because you 
have found, as they have not, the secret of true joy, 
don't you know what they will do? They will surren- 
der. How can they help it? And the prophetic fire 
will begin to burn within them. And the spirit of sac- 
rificial service will take possession of them land lead 
them out right alongside yourselt into new fields of 
triumph for the cause. 

In like manner they will kindle others and these 
still others and so. on without limit, and thus the flame 
of Holy Spirit fire will spread and spread and the 
Kingdom of God will come. 

All this because you, seeing more and loving more 
than Bro. Average Man, yield yourself to the divine 
impulse within you, until he too catches fire from your 
own heart altar. 

So you see just where the matter hinges, and how we 
can solve the problem this year, after all. Isn't it nice 
to have control of things? And feel the throb of a 
mighty power within you? 



. . . EDITORIAL, . . . 



The Personal Factor in the Program 

What a joy it would be to take up the new year's 
work, if one could do if in confidence that the year 
would bring us that " solution " I But it's a joy any- 
way. It's a great thing just to have the high privilege 
of looking for it. 

The reference is, you may recall, to the problem of 
making our church organization more effective in 
touching the life of the individual member in the local 
church. The tide of religious fervor runs high enough 
at Annual Meeting. Strong men are there and they 
make fine speeches. We make plenty of resolutions 
and decisions. They make good reading. We appoint 
all kinds of committees which map out splendid pro- 
grams. There is only one thing lacking. Bro. Average 
Man down at Tom's Creek doesn't respond. He does 
not get the idea. He sees no reason for having the 
even tenor of his quiet and thoroughly respectable life 
disturbed. 

Now if we knew the word that would set him on 
fire we'd gladly say it. If we knew what new kind of 
officer or other wheel in the church machinery would 
do the work, we'd surely suggest it. And we surmise 
that some wise and consecrated servant of the church 
will see how we might come nearer doing this than we 
do, and tell us about it. He will discover some way, 
probably, to bring the insight and inspiration of our 
most gifted leaders into closer contact with the local 
church and its problems so they can touch the church 
Hfe right where it is lived. We believe in the possi- 
bilities of improvement. We believe that our organi- 
zation for carrying out the great constructive mission 
to which the church has been called, can be and will be 
improved. But when the utmost has been done along 
this line that can be done, the main fact will always re- 
main. Two big facts will always remain. One is that 
there is no way of securing the response of the individ- 
ual member to a worthy church program, apart from 
his own free choice and initiative. The other is that 
the strongest factor in arousing the interest of the in- 
dividual member to the point where he will make that 
choice and take that initiative, is the contagion of the 
interest of another. 

The bearing of this on tly: present situation is that it 
puts the matter of immediate action and the most im- 



From One Lap to Another 

"We finish to begin" is right. It's only another 
stage of the same unending journey — the journey to 
perfected Christian manhood and a perfectly Chris- 
tian world — a world filled with the knowledge of God 
as the waters cover the sea. 

Unfortunate indeed if it were otherwise! The zest 
of life is in the possibility of new adventure. Break- 
ing the record is the finest sport there is. And so, in 
the wise planning of an omniscient Father, the standard 
was set so high there could be no danger of our over- 
passing it. "The stature of the fulness of Christ" 
will always keep us busy for another year. 

If you could get so good you could not get any bet- 
ter, living would soon grow stale and tiresome. But 
you need not worry. 

One poor young fellow died of a broken heart (or 
was it of a drunken debauch?) because he could find 
no more worlds to conquer. You need not worry over 



the prospect of a too early grave on that account. The 
nations have not all been discipled yet. And those 
that have been do not yet " observe all things." 

How alluringly the new year beckons to us 1 Some- 
body will surely make a rich find. Unless he's blind. 



The Sense of Direction 

Israel was not the only people wandering about in 
the wilderness during those forty years. But there was 
this difference: Israel was going somewhere. The 
others were staying, there. 

To a casual observer they might have all looked 
alike. They camped and moved and camped again. 
But the natives of the region always kept coming back 
to the same place. Or if they did not, it made no 
difference where the other place might be. They had 
no goal in view. But Israel ? Yes, it backtracked and 
circled about too, but there was a "promised land" 
in its thought all the time. And it got there. 

It might have arrived some thirty-eight years sooner 
if it had known how to lay hold of its opportunity. 

It is interesting and encouraging to be able to detect 
evidences of progress. ' It is very interesting to be able 
to see rapid progress. But as long as the sense of 
direction is not lost, the outlook should be considered 
hopeful. That is the one thing indispensable to moral 
sanity. j 

To provide this and to maintain it, is one way of 
stating the supreme business of the church. Does it 
keep alive and vigorous the consciousness of looking, 
reaching, striving toward a great ideal? Does it do 
this for its members in their individual lives? Are 
they, in their own purposing and whole thought-life, 
headed toward " the stature of the fulness of Christ "? 
Is the church doing this for its own collective life? 
Is it, as an organization, keeping constantly before it 
the realization of Christ's purpose for men, namely, 
putting his Spirit into all their thinking and doing? 

How much of all this has been accomplished and 
how much remains undone ; can it ever be done, and 
how, and when, and so forth and so on? — these are 
side issues, interesting though they are. The main 
question is: Does the church still intend to do this 
job? Is that where it's bound for? Is its sense of 
direction still clear and strong? 



Why Not Begin to Supply the Need? 

Did you see that statement in the papers about 
Thanksgiving time on what noted men thought the 
world needed most? Naturally the physicians said 
better health and the inventors perfected radio, but 
the remarkable thing was the number of leaders from 
all walks of life who joined the preachers in saying it 
was the golden rule or something to that effect. 

.One renowned scientist, referring first to the wonder- 
ful discoveries in electric energy, then remarked what a 
sad irony there was in it all, if it were not recognized 
that " the greatest discovery in all history was the 
golden rule and that fundamental spiritual quality be- 
neath it which enables us to love our neighbors as our- 
selves." Another said, " Love thy neighbor as thyself, 
and peace, righteousness and humanity will reign 
throughout the world." 

It is worth much to recognize the essential truth so 
clearly but still more to feel it deeply enough to prac- 
tice it. Is it because so many other folks do not even 
see it that we hesitate to start out living it ? Let's show 
the beauty of it to more people, then possibly we can 
all unite in putting it to practice. 

But how are you going to show this except by put- 
ting it to practice? O for a faith strong enough to 
prove itself 1 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



CONTRIBUTORS' FORUM 



1 



A New Day 

Dear Lord, I thank thee for another day, 
Another chance to mend and choose my way: 
Another day with friends 1 hold so dear, 
In which to love, and serve, and give them cheer. 

Impulsive in the days gone by, I know, 
With selfish bent, ofttimes I've failed to go 
In ways I knew were right; Lord, help today 
To keep me in a safer, humbler way. 

And if along my path there come to view 
With light and shadow, things untried and new, 
Lord, help me not to venture there alone, 
Or make mistakes for which I must atone. 

Let not my dreams of things I hold most dear 
Tie me to earth; but with a vision clear 
Help me to build this day, dear Lord, with thee, 
The things which last through all eternity. 

Attune my cars to hear thy message, Lord, 
Inspire my lips to speak alone thy word; 
Veil thou mine eyes from things I should not see, 
Help me to leave my burdens all with thee. 

— Author Unknown. 



The Broken Sword 

BY H. A. BRANDT 
Fourth of Seven Studies in an Argument with God 

One might gather upon the tower of Habakkuk a 
great company of notables interested in seeing just 
how Jehovah would answer the prophet's complaint: 
" Thou that art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and 
that canst not look on perverseness, wherefore lookest 
thou upon them that deal treacherously, and holdest thy 
peace when the wicked swalloweth up the man that is 
more righteous than he?" There would be Job, for in 
the days of his misery he had said : 

"The tents of robbers prosper, 
And they that provoke God are secure." 
In the company would also be the cynic who wrote: 
" All things come alike to all ; there is one event to the 
righteous and to the wicked." Almost as insistent as 
the prophet Habakkuk is the prophet Jeremiah : "Right- 
eous art thou, O Jehovah, when I contend with thee ; 
yet would I reason the cause with thee : wherefore doth 
the way of the wicked prosper? wherefore are all they 
at ease that deal very treacherously?" And with all 
of these would stand the apostle Paul, who, coming -up- 
on the same mystery in the ways of God in his closely- 
reasoned letter to the Romans, asks : " And what shall 
we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God?" 
Thus, every man who has wondered with Habakkuk 
why Jehovah holds his peace when the wicked man tri- 
umphs, will be anxious to get a good position on the 
tower of the prophet Habakkuk, as he sets himself to 
see what Jehovah will answer concerning his complaint. 
Therefore, one may add td the dramatis personam in 
the second scene of the controversy between Habakkuk 
and his God. Upon one hand is the prophet upon his 
tower. About him are many notable men of the ages 
past. A deep perplexity is written in the lines of their 
faces. All is expectancy as they await the answer of 
Jehovah. Will he speak ? There is an ominous silence. 
Listen ! A second time Jehovah speaks as no man could 
speak ! 

The burden of Jehovah's reply to the second question 
proposed by the prophet, is, in a sense, an expansion of 
the concluding sentence of Jehovah's first reply. 
Wicked nations that play the role of an instrument of 
punishment are by no means exempt from judgment. 
Their willing and yet unwitting service puts them in 
the path of an appropriate judgment. Therefore, of 
the Chaldeans God had said in his first reply : " Then 
shall he sweep by as a wind, and shall pass over, and be 
guilty, even he whose might is his God." 

But the thing that had absorbed the attention of the 
prophet Habakkuk was the terrible punishment in store 
for Judah, and, especially, that it should come by the 
hands of the wicked Chaldeans, who seemed eternally 
secure in their power. Hence, Jehovah's second an- 
swer may be construed as an expansion of a previous 
suggestion, as well as an extended reply to Habakkuk's 



complaint that a holy God was growing hardened to the 
sight of evils that bade fair to become the law of this 
world. 

The outstanding feature in Jehovah's second reply to 
the prophet is a group of five woes pronounced against 
proud and covetous nations of the Chaldean type, 
whose desire is as Sheol and death, in that it can- 
not be satisfied. 

" Woe to him that increaseth that which is not his 1 
. . . Shall they not rise up suddenly that shall bite 
thee, and awake that shall vex thee, and thou shalt be 
for booty unto them? Because thou hast plundered 
many nations, all the remnant of the nations shall 
plunder thee." The rather striking argument in this 
first woe seems to be that the policy of conquest pur- 
sued by the predatory nation is doomed to failure. The 
argument for failure is based on the contention that a 
policy of ruthless conquest tends to place one against 
many. Hence, the farther a policy of conquest is pushed 
the greater the number of outraged nations that stand 
ready to make common cause against the tyrant. Woe 
to the predatory nation, her sword is broken, and her 
judgment is sure! For the power of one is not as the 
power of many. 

" Woe to him that getteth an evil gain for his house, 
that he may set his nest on high, that he may be de- 
livered from the hand of evil! Thou . . . hast 
sinned against thy soul." This is the second woe, and 
the argument would seem to be just this : the man who 
tries to make himself great and secure at the expense 
of others, in reality chooses against his own best po- 
tential self. In a word, he sins against his own soul. 
There is nothing creative about robbery, except, per- 
haps, as regards the victim. The thief, on the other 
hand, is continually making his way harder by stimulat- 
ing the wits and precautions of his victims. 

" Woe to him that buildeth a town with blood,, and 
establisheth a city by iniquity !" Such men are sure to 
come to a great disillusionment, because the policy of 
conquest does not provide an adequate goal. " Behold, 
it is not of Jehovah of hosts that the peoples labor for 
the fire, and the nations weary themselves for vanity." 

" Woe to him that giveth his neighbor drink, to thee 
that addest thy venom, and makest him drunken also, 
that thou mayest look on their nakedness 1" The sword 
of the conqueror is broken here, because it is impossible 
to corrupt and debauch a neighbor without contaminat- 
ing oneself. Even as Jehovah saith : " Thou art filled 
with shame, and not glory : drink thou also, and be as 
one uncircumcised." 

Finally, woe to him, " even he whose might is his 
god." The gods that men make are nothing ! " Woe to 
him that saith to the wood, Awake ; to the dumb stone, 
Arise! Shall this teach? Behold it is overlaid with 
gold and silver, and there is no breath at all in the 
midst of it." 

"Write the vision, and make it plain upon the tablets, 
that he may run that readeth it." Jehovah abhors that 
which is evil, and as for the wicked Chaldeans their 
judgment is sure. Their pride and glory will sink in 
the dust ! For their policy of conquest but adds nation 
to nation as ultimate antagonists. They shall fall as 
sure as the strength of one is less than the strength of 
many. In that they seek to make themselves strong at 
the expense of others their own wits must surely decay, 
while the genius of the peoples oppressed is kindled into 
a flame. In that day what shall the great empire of the- 
Chaldeans profit? Masters of others, but slaves of their 
own appetites and desires ! When the conqueror cor- 
rupts his neighbor, then shall the two wallow in the 
same pit. Therefore, he whose might is his god shall 
fall with his idols of clay and wood ! " Write the vis- 
ion, and make it plain upon the tablets, that he may run 
that readeth it." In the hearts of the proud and mighty 
Chaldeans there is a fatal flaw, and in their hands a 
broken sword! 

La Verne, Calif. 



Learning to Think 

BY D. C. REBER 



Man is the only created being capable of thinking, 
yet at birth this highest function of man's mind is 
merely a possibility. The earliest movements of the 
child are unconscious reflexes, arising from the spinal 



cord. They consist of automatic movements, such as 
breathing, winking, and later, walking. These acts are 
mechanical, mindless and inherited, and are often re- 
ferred to as " low-level behavior." 

Another and higher tyjie of behavior is controlled by 
the lower brain centers'. In this class of movements 
fall the instinctive and habitual acts of the individual. 
These acts are touched off by a perception or idea, and 
are accompanied by a feeling of strong desire. But 
such acts, too, are devoid of special thought. All in- 
stincts are born in us, but habits are acquired forms of 
mid-level behavior. This second type of conduct is 
blind and unreasoning, and the great bulk of human 
acts are done because people just " feel like it." Ex- 
amples of this class are eating, playing, fighting, loaf- 
ing, mating or love-making. 

Action, guided by thought and feeling, originates in 
the higher brain centers and is volitional. High-level 
behavior is always the result of thought, manifesting a 
purpose or motive. Building a church, deciding to go 
to college, or "taking a journey to Palestine, are voli- 
tional acts, in which thinking enters largely. Such 
acts have a moral quality. 

These three levels of behavior form the basis of 
three kinds of learning. Low-level learning is the act 
of accomplishing a result by mechanical repetition, such 
as a caged animal will resort to in trying to escape. 
It is called the " try, try again " method — taking the 
form of guessing when pupils are too lazy to think. 
The " rat method of learning," through trial and er- 
ror, does not pay, as it is wasteful of energy. It finds 
its legitimate use only in solving puzzles. It has little 
educative value, as the thinking powers are not exer- 
cised. 

Mid-level learning begins with instincts, such as 
play, imitation, curiosity, constructiveness. From these, 
as starting points, useful habits are formed. When a 
habit is once fixed, a consciousness is no longer needed, 
and therefore the acts become automatical. 

High-level learning requires thinking in which ex- 
planation and ideas are used. This is the method of 
learning, employed in teaching adults who can profit 
by hearing lectures, studying books, and who can uti- 
lize past experience in solving problems involving new 
circumstances and conditions. The three types of 
learning, then, are repetition, imitation, and thinking. 
The last is the most difficult to -acquire, but the most 
important in building a noble life. 
■ " As he thinketh in his heart, so is he " (Prov. 23 : 
7). All right conduct has its roots in right thinking. 
Thinking and being are one. Those who rear children 
and would train them in right living, must control 
their lives through feeding their minds with the best 
literature and worthy ideals. What do you think? 
What kind- of thoughts do you like to entertain in 
your mind? " Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever 
things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatso- 
ever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, 
whatsoever things are of good report ; if there be any 
virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things" 
(Philpp. 4:8). 

Jesus is the Great Searcher of human hearts. He 
knew the thoughts of the hostile Jews before they ex- 
pressed them. On one occasion he asked them: 
"Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?" It was 
their thoughts of malice and murder that led them 
later to crucify him. 

The prevailing thoughts of the heart are a sure in- 
dex to the life and character. And those thoughts un- 
consciously are registered on one's countenance, which 
is an index of their nature, whether good or evil. 

The present advanced state of the world's civiliza- 
tion is the result of the great and good thinkers of the 
human race. Philosophers, scientists, inventors, states- 
men, and theologians, are usually spoken of as men 
of thought, while soldiers, generals, explorers, travel- 
ers, etc., are called men of action. Those who think 
most, govern those who toil. Thinkers, like Martin 
Luther, Rousseau and Edison, have caused revolutions 
in church, state and industry. Plato said that the 
philosophers are best fitted to direct the activities of 
the soldiers and laboring classes, and, therefore, the 
rulers of state should be chosen from that class. 

Thinking is perceiving relations between ideas, reach- 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



ing conclusions, and making decisions. There are 
many problems that challenge the best thought of the 
most highly-trained minds. Man's present and future 
state of happiness is greatly influenced by his power to 
solve these problems correctly. Perhaps three of the 
most vital questions, which each individual must an- 
swer for himself, are these: "What think ye of 
Christ?" "What is my calling in life?" "Whom 
shall I marry?" The first of these is the most im- 
portant, If it is answered as Peter answered it, and if 
the life of a Christian is espoused, divine help in an- 
swering the other two properly will always be avail- 
'able. ' 

After the Christian religion has been on trial for 
nearly two millenniums, what does the world think 
of Christ? This, question of the centuries confronts 
' each individual possessing sound reason. It is impos- 
sible to evade answering it by the life, even if we at- 
tempt to do so by word ; and the answer one gives re- 
veals his destiny. 

Christian thought is leading the most successful en- 
terprises in the world today. The Christian view- 
point changes one's whole outlook on life. Hence you 
may well enter the school of Christ, so that you may 
learn to think as the great Master Teacher would have 
you think — even to think God's thoughts, remember- 
ing that good thoughts make good character, and that 
inspiring thoughts ennoble the life, and that as you 
think in this world, so are you now, and will be al- 
ways. 

North Manchester, hid. 



Jesus as a Conversationalist 

BY E. F. SHERFY 

Jesus -the Christ has often been referred to as the 
Master Teacher — the teacher who, better than any 
other teacher, modern *or ancient, was able to adapt his 
profound teaching to the' ordinary human mind and 
heart in such a way as to make it " stick " dnd pal- 
pitate with truth. This he did in harmony with what 
we have since found to be the latest thought and the 
" last word " in up-to-date psychology and pedagogy; 

But while we are right, in regarding him as a great 
pedagog, we should not forget that he was also a great 
conversationalist; thaB with him conversation was not 
. only a " useful art " but a " fine art." It was for him 
a fine art, not because he, seemingly, made a studied 
effort to make it " fine," but because he was so natural 
and easy, as he played back and forth \yith his inter- 
locutor. He possessed this ease and poise because he 
possessed the two qualifications for a good conversa- 
tionalist, t. e., a good mind and a good heart. 

He had a logical mind with the faculty of thinking 
straight, and with a unique power to get quickly a 
comprehensive grasp of a subject and ability to see fun- 
damentals and great categorical truths without bother- 
ing much with incidentals. He was well informed in 
the things about which he was willing and ready to 
talk — the things others about him were interested in and 
the things for which he excited in them an interest. He 
knew his Bible. He evidently knew the traditions and 
customs of the people of his time. He knew dozens, 
perhaps hundreds, of proverbs and trite sayings, com- 
mon to his own people — their hopes and longings, their 
sins and shortcomings, and knew them in their religious 
life. He knew himself and his destined relation to other 
people and to his God. He was always ready, therefore, 
to say something, when occasion called for it, because 
he had something to say. 

And the fact that he knew people — knew human 
nature and knew that people have imaginative powers 
which, become suddenly alert and on tip-toe, when ap- 
pealed to by an imaginative story or word picture, this 
made it possible for him to get a grip upon his inter- 
locutor which held him fast; not that he used hypnotic 
powers, but rather magnetic power — the power of 
personal magnetism which came from both a good 
mind and a good heart, both of which were wholly con- 
trolled by the Holy Spirit. 

He was courteous and charitable, never parading a 
person's shortcomings before others. He was, how- 
ever, candid and frank, as when he told the prospective 
followers that the foxes have holes, etc. 



A good conversationalist needs a sense of humor. 
If Jesus was normally human, as I believe he was, he 
doubtlessly had a good laugh after telling the critical 
lawyer the Good Samaritan story and as he left him 
self-condemned and outwitted. 

No finer example of sympathy, when sympathy is 
needed, in a conversation, can be found anywhere than 
the example of Jesus talking to Mary and Martha at the 
tomb of Lazarus. For the Word states, with the 
eloquence of simplicity, that " he wept." 

Christ was not verbose ; every word meant something 
in "the conversation. However, he was not so brief as 
to be " short off." With his enemies there was ofttimes 
a brevity not found in his conversation with his friends, 
which is, of course, natural. And this leads us to say 
that never was there a man who, right out in the open, 
conversed with bitter enemies and did it with such 
magnanimous grace as did Jesus. His charitable yet 
firm method of handling his enemies is a marvel. His 
conversations left them self -condemned, and in this 
field was his crucial test. Almost any of us can talk 
to a friend, but an enemy — that is different. 

Since studying this characteristic of the life of 
Jesus, I have one other characteristic of his life in 
mind, as a challenge for me to be like him. 

McPherson, Kans. 



A Reasonable and Practical Faith 

BY ERNEST G. HOFF 

The Christian today, in order to maintain his own 
religious life and to make his religion felt in the lives 
of others, is called upon to examine and determine the 
fundamentals of his Christian faith. He is situated 
in a world of thought which is in the process of change. 
In recent years the telescope, has greatly enlarged his 
universe and the microscope has greatly enriched it. 
Physical science has opened realms heretofore un- 
known, and the end of the process of scientific dis- 
covery and invention can not now be predicted, even by 
the most fertile imagination. 

Further, in the realms of social organization and 
political government principles and institutions, which 
have the sanction Gf age-long practice are being mi- 
nutely examined and fearlessly criticised. These and 
other similar elements of the present environment de- 
mand of the twentieth century man a re-examination 
and re-statement of his philosophy of life. His religion 
can not escape this demand. 

What, then, is the situation of religion in this chang- 
ing order? There are those who say that it, too, must 
change. They interpret religion in social terms, and 
therefore hold that it must change with the changing 
social conditions and environment. Some of these think 
that Christianity contains the germs from which the 
ultimate religion Is to grow. Others do not think that 
the ultimate religion is yet in sight. 

Christianity, as we now have it, would, then, be only 
a stepping-stone in the direction of that ultimate religion 
which would consist of elements of truth gleaned from 
all religions. On the other hand, there are those who 
say that, regardless of changing conditions, religion 
must not change. Christianity itself embodies all that 
is good in religion, answers the universal need of man's 
soul, and is, therefore, the ultimate religion. Some 
would claim this only for the essential content of Chris- 
tianity, allowing each generation and even each indi- 
vidual the freedom to state this content in terms of its 
own conditions, experience, and needs. Others would 
claim permanent validity also for the forms and the 
creedal statements as well as for the essence of Chris- 
tianity. To them, a man's scientific, political, social, 
economic, or philosophical outlook makes no difference, 
for the creeds of the early centuries of the church 
are an authoritative embodiment of Christianity for all 
time. 

These differing points of view demand the attention 
of every Christian today. The one group holds that a 
scientifically educated man can not hold a static re- 
ligious faith. If he can not state his religion in terms 
of his own experience and outlook, he will have none of 
religion. We must, therefore, give him freedom to 
state and express his religion in the growing terms of 
his own life. Doctrine, if there be such, must be 



constantly restated if it is to be of any practical value. 
The extreme group on the other side says that change 
in the statement of doctrine and perhaps also in forms 
is fatal to vital religion. It undermines the structure 
by removing the foundation. This difference of point 
of view will not stay within the walls of theoretical 
theological discussion. It has entered the realm of 
practical religion. The radical proponents of the two 
points of view are now threatening to divide* into two 
hostile camps, not merely individual denominations, 
but even the whole of Protestant Christendom. 

It would be unreasonably ambitious for this article 
to claim or even to seek an adequate , solution of this 
problem. Perhaps, as is often the case in such con- 
troversies, there is some truth on both sides and the ul- 
timate solution of the problem will be found in that 
field which lies between the two extreme views. The 
immediate purpose of this article is to point the way to 
a practical attitude in the situation. Accordingly, some 
material will be presented which will indicate fallacies 
in both radical points of view, in which material itself 
will be found some of the basic principles of a reason- 
able and practical faith. 

Some Permanent and Univenal Values in Christianity 

What can be said to the one who holds the radical 
evolutionary point of view? Is Christianity the ulti- 
mate religion? It may seem a bit dogmatic to some to 
attempt to define the ultimate religion. But it is, never- 
theless, worth while to state some of the elements of 
Christianity which lay claim to be permanent and uni- 
versal values. The first and basic of these we would 
expect to be the Christian doctrine of God. The Chris- 
tian God is a personal Spirit. He is the one and only 
God, who has created the universe and possesses all 
power and wisdom. He is the embodiment of all ex- 
cellence of character, becoming the Moral Ideal both in 
his character and in his demands. But while he is 
supreme in power and goodness, he is a Loving Father 
to man and cherishes and cares for even the least of 
his children. He is comprehensibly and yet authorita- 
' tively revealed in the Incarnate Christ. And he ever 
remains in vital contact with the lives of his children 
through his Holy Spirit. No other religion has ap- 
proached such a doctrine of God. It is to be hoped that 
future generations will allow themselves to be drawn 
into closer fellowship with God, and will thereby be 
able to know him better, but there is no indication that 
any of these elements of the Christian doctrine of God 
will ever be superseded. 

What may be said of the Christian doctrine of man? 
Man, in his nature, was created in the image of God — a 
spiritual and moral being. He was destined to be a son 
of God himself and a brother to his fellow-man. The 
soul of man is of infinite value, yet the function of his 
life is, that he may lose himself in service to his fellows. 
The ideal of man's life is conformity to the will of 
God. The principle of his action is love — on the one 
hand toward God, and on the other hand, toward man. 
His highest happiness is to be found in service. The 
ideal of man's character is to be found in its highest 
concrete expression in Jesus Christ, the Ideal Man, 
who was untarnished by sin, unhampered by imper- 
fections, and attained full-grown moral and spiritual 
manhood. The destiny of man is the consummation 
of that fellowship with God himself, which is begun 
here in this life but reaches its perfection when the 
limitations of this life are removed. 

In close connection with the doctrine of man comes 
the Christian doctrine of salvation. Christianity recog- 
nizes man's actual condition, which is sinful. The 
problem of sin is man's age-long problem, for the solu- 
tion of which he must have help from without. He is 
powerless to lift himself out of sin. Christianity pre- 
sents a Loving God, who is seeking his lost ones and 
is willing to forgive all, receive them back into fellow- 
ship with himself, and to give them the strength to 
live above the power of sin. This forgiving love is ex- 
emplified upon the cross, whereby forgiveness is 
granted and assured. But man must also do all in 
his power to help himself. He has the capacity to 
trust God, and the will to choose the higher life. When 
man uses this capacity to lay hold of God and the higher 
life, the Spirit of God can transform his character ac- 
cording to the ideal of Christ and use his life in service. 

(Continued on Page 10) 



'. 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



Honor Them! 

BY MAUD MOHLER TRIMMER 

Thanks be, the church is at last aware of the rights 
of her ministry. No longer do we expect a man to 
earn his bread by the sweat of his brow six days in the 
week, and on the seventh day miraculously produce a 
sermon that will stand the analysis of an over-critical 
audience' And some of us know that it is not our 
province to demand that the minister's family live after 
our conception of Christian conduct. We can even 
concede a few human faults to the minister. We 
should honor our preachers — we should provide for 
them and uphold them. We have erred grievously in 
the past, in our treatment of them. That is mostly be- 
yond repair, but at least we can pay one part of our 
debt to them, and that is reverence. We can do justice 
to those who serve us from the pulpit today and will in 
the future. 

Twice, lately, I heard ministers state that unless 
their congregations paid them a decent wage, they 
would not respect them. I doubted this. There flitted 
through my mind a procession of the preachers of the 
past — tall, gaunt men, short men, broad men, scholarly 
men, men who murdered the English language, blondes, 
brunettes — in short, all types, physically and intellectu- 
ally. All of them were ill-clad and overworked, but 
all were sincere. Their hands were horny and hard, 
their homes the poorest in the . neighborhood, their 
wives and children had the least in clothing and con- 
veniences. How real and deep was their religion ! Aft- 
er weary days in the field, they sat at night with the 
sick and the dead. They rode miles over ice and snow, 
or through the wind, to preach without pay. With 
minds centered on church work, they seldom could 
concentrate on business enough to make a success of 
it. 

Often a man actually earned less than that of which 
he was capable, because of divided interests. It was 
equally hard for him to change his thought quickly 
from things ot this world to those of the next, and. 
prepare a good message. It must have been hard for 
these old heroes to step down and give their places to 
younger men who preached more attractive sermons, 
simply because they were granted time and freedom 
properly to shape them. Their hearers have not re-, 
alized what might have been accomplished by the 
older ministers, had they had the advantages of their 
successors. But their efforts were full of merit. I 
have heard many flowery sermons by young men, 
chuckful of oratory and rhetoric, but it is seldom they 
give us as much of truth and help as the simple, sin- 
cere speeches of the primitive speaker. Very young 
people demand precision of form, and grace of delivery 
from their pastors, but with maturity most people 
have sense enough to estimate the worth of a sermon 
by its thought content. And mature Christians find 
the men who preached the Gospel " free/' worthy of 
all honor. > 

It has been a mistake to say that the Gospel ever was 
preached " free." To be sure, the congregation paid 
nothing, but a little waste produce and some of their 
own self-respect, but the preacher and his family paid 
at a heavy rate. On the altar of loving service the 
minister and his wife sacrificed the energy, hopes and 
vigor of youth, denied themselves proper apparel, 
did without the house they had planned in youth, 
higher education for their children, new hair-ribbons 
for their young girls, toys and games for their little 
ones, and the foolish nothings -so dear to their teen age 
children. In short, the preacher's family gave up the 
little comforts and pleasures that their " people " ac- 
cepted as their own rights. 

It took men to fill the pulpits in those days — men 
with elements of goodness and greatness in them, men 
of courage, endurance, earnestness, unselfishness and 
convictions. Had they been forest trees, they would 
have been oaks among soft maples arid box elders. 

By all means, those ministers should be honored now. 
In justice, they should receive pensions to restore to 
them what they earned years ago, but what, with the 
increased call for mission funds and pastors' salaries, 
it may not, at present, be feasible. Still there may rise 
those who will think to bequeath needed funds for this 
purpose. It would be gratifying to pay back to these 



men in advanced age a little of what they lost in their 
youth. And every one can show appreciation of them. 

In the Southwest, when a dignitary of the Roman 
Catholic Church passes by (and he may not be an ideal 
man morally) the people bow deeply. In Latin coun- 
tries they even kneel. If they can show such excess of 
devotion to men not always worthy, surely we should 
pay respect to our own good, clean, upright, religious 
leaders. It would be no more than proper for every 
man of the Church of the Brethren to raise his hat to 
our veteran preachers and every woman to show, by 
her manner, profound respect. 

Long Beach, Calif. 



Self -Control 



BY CLAUDE H. MURRAY 



"He that ruleth his spirit is better than he that 
taketh a city, " said the wise Solomon, though, in old 
age, he fell away from his own wise counsel. '" Adding 
on your part all diligence, in your faith supply virtue, 
knowledge, self-control, " said the once impetuous 
and hasty Peter. He had learned his lesson through 
hitter experience, as most of us today do. " Let your 
moderation be known unto all men, " was Paul's advice. 
He had been exceedingly zealous in persecuting the 
followers of Christ until Christ met him face to face 
on the Damascus road, and thereby changed his whole 
life. He had tried the full force of learning and 
oratory and reasoning, in endeavoring to acquaint the 
Athenian Greeks with " the unknown God, " and had 
received only mockery from some and " We will hear 
thee concerning this matter yet again " from the others. 
" It was self-control that saved Joseph when, in his 
hour of temptation, he fled away, leaving his outer gar- 
ment behind in the hands of his temptress (Gen. 39), 
saying: " How can I do this great wickedness and sin 
against God ? " Would that we had more men like 
Joseph in our day and age ! A momentary loss of self- 
control cost Moses his chance to share in the occupa- 
tion of the Promised Land. David, the sweet singer 
of Israel, once bemoaned his unruly tongue: " I said in 
mine haste!" Oh, how often, after we have said 
angry, or unwise, or urikind, or thoughtless words that 
have " found mark the archer little meant, " do we 
vainly wish we could recall them and blot them out ! 

" Boys, flying kites, haul in their white-winged hirds, 
We can't do that when we are flying words; 
Thoughts unexpressed will sometimes fall back dead, 
But God himself can't stop them when they're said." 

The only way to destroy the blighting effect of un- 
wise words, and unruly tongues, is to try always to do 
as David prayed : " Set a watch, O Lord, upon my lips, 
that I sin not with my tongue. " We need to pray this 
prayer when we are tempted to use any other than 
the " soft answer " which " turneth away wrath. " 

When Nehemiah led back -the Israelites he rebuilt 
the walls of Jerusalem, after he had restored the temple 
worship and practices of Israel's former godly days. 
In recounting some of the indulgences of former rulers, 
to which he himself would have been ""entitled by 
custom, he chose to exercise self-control, explaining 
his action by these words, " So did riot I, because of the 
fear of God. " Ah, how many in America today re- 
strain their desires "because of the fear of God"? 
We fear what our neighbors may say, more often, I am 
thinking, when we plan our course or conduct. 

We follow the evil impulses of the moment too 
often, and forget that God's eye is ever upon us. 
Though our neighbors may not see — though father or 
mother may be away so they can not restrain us— 
though we may be away among strangers, who know 
little and care less about our actions unless their per- 
sonal interests are affected — though, perhaps, we are 
in such a position that husband or wife may never dis- 
cover our misdeeds — yet " thou, God, seest me. " And 
" so do not I, because of the fear of God " should help 
us to keep control of ourselves. 

The tendency of the world has ever been toward 
self-indulgence, and this tendency has not abated in 
our day. " Follow the crowd " and "Take the line of 
least resistance " are favorite rules of conduct today. 



I have been to churches today, capable of seating 
hundreds. At one place there were sixty-three in at- 
tendance and at another less, than a hundred. Though 
services lasted only about an hour, some were sleepy 
and some were restless in that short time ! Coming 
back to my room from one of these churches, after 
services, on alighting from the street car, I found the 
square (four streets) so blocked with people that autos 
and street cars had difficulty in passing. They were 
watching the scoreboard, showing plays and results of 
one of the " world series baseball games. " All were 
interested; no one was either sleepy or restless. ■ None 
complained at having to stand up for over two hours ! 
Most, if not all, who were there would have felt very 
unfairly treated, had they been compelled to stand for 
thirty minutes in a church service. 

These incidents are signs of the times. They show 
unmistakably the trend of popular sentiment toward 
doing what we like, and leaving what we do not care 
for to others, regardless of its importance or value for 
ourselves. We need to preach self-control in our pul- 
pits — in our schools — in our homes — and we need to 
practice it ourselves and teach our children to restrain 
their-impulses arid desires. None of us can have all we 
may desire; it would not be well for us if we could, 
for somebody, somewhere else, would then have to pay 
the price of our indulgence, or we ourselves will pay 
in shortened lives and unprofitable spiritual attain- 
ments. If we in America do not soon curb our self- 
indulgence and learn to practice self-control, the day is 
not far distant when we shall be called to pay the price 
that other equally great nations of former days have 
pnid, and we shall be but a name on the pages, inscribed 
by some future historian, along with Babylon, Nineveh, 
Egypt, . Greece and Rome. The place to begin the 
practice is with the individual and the home, for our 
homes determine the character of our religious and 
national attainments. 

Creston, Ohio. . . » . 

Vacation Schools of 1923 

BY EZRA FLORY 

December 21, 1923, we had the reports of 315 
schools for last summer. These show that we have 
had no reports from the following State Districts: 
Southeastern Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey 
and Delaware; Middle Maryland; Western Maryland; 
North Dakota ; Western Colorado. 

Western Pennsylvania, which in 1923 stood above 
the number 26, has fallen to 11 reported schools. South- 
ern California and Arizona have but 2 reported, Wis- 
consin but 2, and some others are quite low, having 
reported fewer schools than were held. We think there 
are from 75 to 100 unreported schools. 

We can not help wondering why we are unable to 
get these reports, after writing many letters. But we 
just can not get them. We try to assist the schools by 
furnishing enrollment cards free, and asking at the 
same time for a report as soon as the schools close. 
Other denominations charge about 30 cents a hundred 
for such cards. It seems to us that employed workers 
who neglect this matter ought to forfeit the right to 
be reemployed. 

The following States have had no schools: Arkansas, 
Florida, South Carolina, New Jersey, New York, South 
Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Nevada, 
Utah, New Mexico, Mississippi, Georgia, Kentucky 
and the New England States, where we have no 
churches. 

These are the new States for schools : Louisiana, Ala- 
bama, Washington, Texas, Delaware and Canada. 

Virginia had most schools — 72. Ohio had the larg- 
est enrollment, 4,242. Southern Ohio is again ahead 
as a State District in enrollment, with 4,376, being one- 
sixth of our total enrollment. Southern Ohio also 
leads State Districts in the number of schools, there be- 
ing 28. Salem church, Southern Ohio, was the largest 
school with 365 enrolled. This school has had the 
honor of being the largest local school for three years. 
Perhaps it is still the largest purely rural Vacation 
School in all denominations. It was the largest of that 
kind two years ago. There were several union schools 
that were larger than Salem. Of these, Spokane, 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



Wash., was the largest, with 510, our people contribut- 
ing a large number of the attendants. Wabash, Ind., 
was another, with 493. Detroit had 370 as a union 
school, and Sebring (town), Northeastern Ohio, had 
348. Wheatville, Southern Ohio, had 330. The small- 
est school was in the mountains of Virginia with 12. 

In college regions we find the list to be as follows : 
North Manchester 66, McPherson 58, Bridgewater 57, 
Mt Morris 41, Daleville 30, La Verne 22, Juniata 17, 
Elizabethtown 14, Blue Ridge 10. 

The average length of terms was 10.43 days. The 
total enrollment was 26,328, with 43 per cent males. 
The total average attendance was 19,765, or 73.7 per 
cent. There were 5,681 Beginners (ages under six) ; 
over 8,200 Primaries ; over 8,000 Juniors. The total 
above twelve years was almost 4,600. There were 340 
employed helpers, with varying wages averaging about 
ten dollars per week. There were 1,963 voluntary help- 
ers. The amount contributed for missionary purposes 
was $1,151.61. There were 2,439 homes visited. 



We are expecting to give a summary report by State 
Districts in January, when we trust more reports will 
have been sent. This will then be the final report. 
Those who have not reported by the first week in 
January will probably never do so. We shall enter the 
others as unreported. We are ascertaining the unre- 
ported schools from District Secretaries. 

There are 27 States represented, and 43 State Dis- 
tricts in this report. This year we had our largest num- 
ber of schools. The history of the growth is as follows : 
In 1919 there were 7 ; in 1920 there were 1 88, 7 of which 
were unreported; in 1921 there were 303, with 14 un- 
reported; in 1922 there were 370, with 64 unreported; 
in 1923 there are 315 with many unreported. 

For several years the Ohio River has been the divid- 
ing line, east and west, for these schools, there being a 
few more east than west. This year the report shows 
187 west of this river and 128 east of it. The percent- 
age of churches and Sunday-schools in the west having 
Vacation Schools exceeds those in the east very much. 



■ 


Our Forward Movement 

Edited by J. W. Lear 

General Director of the Council of Promotion 


■ 



Wishing 

Do you wish the world were better? 

Let me tell you what to do. 
Set a watch upon your actions, 

Keep them always straight and true, 
Rid your mind of selfish motives, 

Let your thoughts be clean and high, 
You can make a little Eden, 

Of the sphere you occupy. 

Do you wish the world were wiser? 

Well, suppose you make a start, 
By accumulating wisdom, 

In the scrapbook of your heart. 
Do not waste one page on folly 

Live to learn and learn to live, 
If you wish to give men knowledge, 

You must get it ere you give. 

Do you wish the world were happy? 

Then remember, day by day, 
Just to scatter seeds of kindness 

As you pass along the way. 
For the pleasures of the many 

May be ofttimes traced to one, 
As the hand that plants the acorn 

Shelters armies from the sun. 

— Selected. 



The Church Program 

It is to be hoped that every pastor is following 
along in this program, and honestly endeavoring to 
relate it in some fashion to his own particular situa- 
tion. To the pastor the initiation of a working and 
challenging program for his church rightfully be- 
longs. The awakening of a conviction and the cre- 
ating of an impulse within the church membership, 
to undertake the obligation of serving a needy hu- 
manity in the name and spirit of Christ the" Lord, is 
worthy of the thought and energy of any minister of 
the Gospel. Whatever program the pastor under- 
takes should cover every phase of Christian endeavor 
exemplified by the Master. The last department in 
this program is 

V. Fellowship, or Social Contacts 

The Social Gospel has been tabooed by many, be- 
cause they seemed to think it was an attempt to sub- 
stitute it for salvation through the grace of our Lord 
Jesus Christ. Of course, if by the Social Gospel is 
meant that man is his own savior, that he is to deliver 
himself from a broken law and a corrupt society, we 
also are out of sympathy with it. But if it means 
" whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the 
name of the Lord Jesus, " then up and onward with 
the Gospel of Social Service. 

Our fellowship with each other and with the world 
grows out of our fellowship with the Father and with 
the Lord Jesus Christ. In our fellowship with the 
Father and our Master we develop our spiritual power 
and resources, but we must remember that the " up- 
per-room " fellowship was dismissed by the Master's 



"Arise, let us go hence." Hence where? Out into 
the night. Out into the moral darkness. Out into the 
shadow of the cross. " I came not to be ministered 
unto, but to minister and to give my life as a ran- 
som. " " I am among you as he that serveth. " In- 
deed, fellowship with Christ means not only salvation, 
but service as well. The issue of salvation is service. 
The church must be sensitive to the social conditions 
of the community — physical, intellectual, moral, pol- 
itical, economical, racial, etc. — and center the forces 
of her spiritual life upon the community in behalf of 
social betterment. 

In the midst of the people the church is to teach 
and to practice the messages of Jesus: "Love thy 
neighbor as thyself. " " As ye would that men should 
do to you, do ye even also to them. " " Thy will be 
done on earth as it is in heaven. " " Inasmuch as ye 
did it unto the least of these my brethren, ye did it 
unto me. " It belongs to the church to arm herself 
with the weapons of warfare that are " mighty before 
God to casting down imaginations, and every high 
thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, 
and bringing every thought into captivity to the obe- 
dience of Christ; and being ready to avenge all diso- 
bedience, when your obedience shall be made full. " 
What a tremendous task before the Christian church! 
And who is sufficient for these things? " Not that we 
are sufficient of ourselves, to account anything as 
from ourselves; but our sufficiency is from God." 
The Program of Fellowship or Social Service 
/. Create an Attitude of Mind and an Atmosphere 

of Fclloiuship Within the Congregation. 

What the church wants without, she must first of 
all have within. A divided church can not work for 
a united community. A warring church can not 
preach the Gospel of peace to the community. If 
group selfishness is to be overcome without, it must 
be eliminated within. There must be absolute inter- 
dependence. There must be no schisms in the body ; 
no false class pride that would say to the other class, 
" I riave no need of you. " All local congregations 
would do well to read again and again 1 Cor. 1-27, 
and then take the matter very seriously to themselves. 
If the church is to become a sympathetic nervous 
system for the world's ills, she must be very effectual- 
ly functioning within the body. 
2. Conduct a Thorough Campaign of Education. 

(a) Study the Bible teaching on the subject of 
social service. Without taking up my concordance, 
I could quote numbers of scriptures on the subject. 
Get busy, pastors, and inform your people! 

(b) Arrange study classes. 

(c) Provide books and literature on the subject. 

(d) Conduct Sunday evening forums, in which 
ways and means of doing something for the needy of 
the community may be discussed. 



5. Make a Survey of the Field, and Schedule Activ- 
ities for Everybody. 

(a) Ministration of the sick and the needy. 

(b) Promote some system of sociability and hos- 
pitality. 

(c) Plan to help the weak and erring ones in the 
church. 

(rf) Make a prayer list and undertake intercessory, 
prayer and personal work. 

(e) Form a flower committee and take sunshine in- 
to the dark places. 

(/) Form " Helping Hand " clubs to asssist un- 
fortunates in and out of the church. Husking bees, 
hauling coal, cutting wood, putting out a crop, and 
dozens of other things can be thought of and done 
that will make life's pathway brighter for the un- 
fortunate about us and will cause people to say, "How 
they love one another!" 

(g) Recreational activities and supervised play for 
children under religious and moral auspices. 

(h) Cooperating with other religious bodies in 
worthy community betterment movements. 
./. Hitch Up All of Your Group Organizations to th" 

Task of Social Service. 

You have not forgotten them, have you? 

(a) The Official Board. 

(b) The Religious Educational Board. 

(c) The Laymen's Association. 

(d) The Women's Society. 

(e) The Young People's Guild. 

Would it not be a good plan for the pastor to call 
the officers of these several groups into a conference, 
to discuss the problem of the church functioning with- 
in the body and in the community, for greater fellow- 
ship and social service? 



Why Not? 

Suppose some of the members of the District Boards 
of the church write a symposium on the most effective 
District organization and how they may unite to pro- 
mote all of the interests of the District. 

Suppose again some of the wide-awake pastors write 
a treatise on the best local church organization and 
local church program. 

Go to work. Send them to the office here. Let us 
be helpful to each other. It is the Lord's work. It 
is our work. Let us work together with him for a 
better church, for a better society, unto his glory 
whose we are and whom we serve. 



Mission Notes 

The North Manchester church reports a won- 
derful day for the Lord's work on the Sunday before 
Christmas. Large crowds were present. Three were 
baptized m the afternoon. An impressive Christmas 
service was held at night, with an offering of $850 
for the Emergency Fund. But the spirit of this offer- 
ing was so fine that two gave their lives to the Lord. 
Such meetings do not come by accident often. There 
is a reason ! 

A letter from Africa tells of four happy mission- 
aries going to their work in a Ford, covering, what re- 
quired five days' walk, in five hours — though this is 
not all the distance from the railroad. The workers 
are improving in health and are hopeful at the out- 
look. 

The workers in India, asking to have their sup- 
port reduced at this time to help the great need, 
evidence to the church the spirit of devotion of those 
who represent them on the field. The same spirit, 
at home upon the heart of the church, would cheer 
them, too — and the Lord ! 



The Junior Mission Bakd at Flora, Ind., is full 
of joy because of what it was able, under the leader- 
ship of Sister H. C. Early, to do for the cause of mis- 
sions. Several weeks before Christmas the work was 
started and different methods of earning money were 
engaged in, until finally, when the offering was brought 
in, it amounted to $10. One little girl, living in the 
country too far to come, sent her offering. 

c D. B. 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



THE ROUND TABLE 



My Resolution 

Could I recall the Old Year and erase 
My errors, writing honor in their place, 
I, looking back, can see how I'd revise 
The record I have made, but time defies 
Reversals, I can only go ahead ; 
No turning back for me, but I instead, 
Upon the threshold of the year to be, 
Resolve that if my lot it is to see 
The coming year unfold its pages white, 
A more respectful record I will write. 
God help me to this resolution hold 
Within the hollow of my hand, enfold 
Within my heart its essence day by day, 
And by its standard every action weigh. 

— Watchman-Examiner. 



Counterfeits 

BY ARCHER WALLACE 

Not long ago the newspapers told of a burglar who 
had been caught red-handed, dressed as a clergyman, 
and more recently a woman thief was caught, dressed 
as an officer of the Salvation Army. Of course, it was 
soon proved that these people were professional thieves, 
masquerading in clothes which they thought would lift 
them above suspicion. 

These incidents served to illustrate, however, that 
even thieves appreciate the standing of religious people. 
When rogues don the attire of Christian leaders it is 
the cause of " imitation being the sincerest form of 
flattery." . Some one has said that there would be no 
counterfeit money if it were not true that there was 
plenty of good money. The imitation coin, or bill, bears 
witness to the fact that good money is in circulation. 

There is no organization of Christian people into 
which counterfeit Christians can not sometimes find 
their way. During the war physical tests were applied 
to men seeking to enlist, and the physically unfit were 
rejected. In this manner the physical well-being of the 
army could be looked after. But the church has no 
means- of rejecting the morally unfit. What possible 
way is there of finding out those of unclean life or of 
defiled conscience ? There is no way, and so the church 
is inevitably weakened by the presence of those who 
are simply "counterfeit" Christians. Yet, when all 
things are taken into consideration, the amazing thing 
is that the church has remained the great moral force of 
the world, and the hope and mainstay of the nation. 
During the fight against slavery, Abraham Lincoln 
said : " Thank God for the churches !" During the years 
since Lincoln's day, there have been many great moral 
battles, and his devout prayer of thanksgiving has been 
offered by many. 

Toronto, Can. —•-; 

" All Have Sinned " (Rom. 5: 12) 

BY EDYTH HtLLERY HAY 

A most concise statement, yet how broad in mean- 
ing! I hear that some great minds are refusing to 
believe in the Adamic curse; that humanity as a race 
was doomed and condemned because Adam's sinful 
nature was propagated from him to all generations; 
that God would not be so unjust as to condemn all 
because of the shortcoming of one individual. 

It is not for us to question the justice or the judg- 
ments of our Lord. Read on down this chapter, 
and pause a moment at the 18th verse: " Therefore, 
as by the offence of one, judgment came upon all 
men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness 
of one, the free gift came upon all men unto justi- 
fication. " 

Narrow the one and you narrow the other. Shall 
we try to make the magnanimity of our Christ a half- 
hearted sacrifice? Yea, verily, " all have sinned " 
and, glory to his name, it was for all he died. All 
do not avail themselves of his complete remission, 
but the virtue and the abundance remain, neverthe- 
less. 

Between sin and grace there is a wide disparity 
unless we come to the one safe bridge. Sin brings 
judgment and death. Grace offers pardon and life. 



May I stress here that sin is sin, and in God's sight 
has no degrees in malignancy, with the exception of 
the one sin which shall be forgiven no man? All 
have sinned, whether they have actually murdered or 
merely prevaricated ; whether they have been forni- 
cators or scoffers; whether they have worshipped 
idols of brass or stone or made sport of an old man's 
bald head — all have sinned and all are condemned 
who fail to come under the atoning blood. 

But the wonder of the one is greater than the won- 
der of the other — just as the power of love and light 
proves superior to the power of doubt and darkness — 
just as life is more beautiful than death. ' Sin is 
natural, grace is divine. Sin generates its own death 
sting in all sinners, whether they sin grossly or mild- 
ly (?). Grace is superabundant and all-sufficient 
from the primal moment of expiation on Calvary. 
We grow in its knowledge, but not in its efficacy. 
The vilest sinner may be spotlessly cleansed. 

There isn't so much need to stress judgment, after 
all. It is its own retributor. My joy is in the, won- 
der and the working of divine grace, and I praise 
God it is for all and covers all. As the transgres- 
sion of one brought death upon all, so the love and 
obedience of one brings pardon and life to all, who 
likewise will love and obey. 

Goshen, Ind. .-»_ 

Midnight Musings 

BY SARAH M. SAUNDERS 

The psalmist David says : " Blessed is the man 
that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor 
standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat 
of the scornful, but his delight is in the law of the 
Lord ; and in his law doth he meditate day and night " 
(Psa. 1:1, 2). In this Scripture three negatives are 
mentioned — " walketh not in the counsel of the ungod- 
ly," "standeth not in the way of sinners," and " sitteth 
not in the seat of the scornful." A blessing is also pro- 
nounced upon the man who keeps himself aloof from 
the characters here referred to, and who finds " his 
delight in the law of the Lord, and in his law doth he 
meditate day and night." 

Even down to the present era of time, those who 
make the Scripture their study, find it a source of com- 
fort and joy, not to be found anywhere else. The trou- 
bled soul will find peace, the weary soul will find rest, 
the hungry soul will find food and drink to nourish and 
cherish and give strength to bear the trials and sorrows 
of this life, thus furnishing the mind with thoughts and 
meditations for the midnight hour. How often the 
slumbers of the night are suddenly broken without any 
apparent cause, and a flood of thoughts comes like the 
waves of the sea over the soul ! Sometimes it is a sense 
of our imperfection and God's mercy toward us. Again 
we muse on God's unlimited power and his wondrous 
works. Again we pour out our souls in silent prayer 
to him who knoweth the very secrets of our poor 
hearts, when we are too full for utterance. Such medi- 
tations are always refreshing and we can in humility 
say, 

" O thou, in whose presence my soul takes delight, 

On wham in afflictions I call, 

My comfort by day, and my song in the night, 

My hope, my salvation, my all." 

Battle Creek, Mich. 



said, so lovingly : " Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and 
ye shall find." 

If God's children do not ask of him, they do not 
please him. He wants to be asked — " in faith believ- 
ing." For without faith it is- impossible to please him — 
by asking. 

Sebring, Fla. —•— 

Witnesses for Christ 

BY JOSEPH D. REISH 

The duty imposed upon his followers by the 
Master, who was about to ascend, was that they were 
to be witnesses for him (Acts 1:8). By that means 
they were firmly to establish and propagate in the 
world the cause which he had inaugurated, and which 
they had espoused. The task was primarily given 
to those who heard his last message, but indirectly 
all subsequent followers are also included. If we 
are among that number, our duty is plain. 

Now a true witness is one who testifies only to 
that which he knows, therefore, to witness aright 
for Christ, we must know him as our Redeemer and 
Savior. If we really know him as such, we shall 
gladly witness for him wherever opportunity is af- 
forded, saying with David : " I have not hid thy 
righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy 
faithfulness and thy salvation ; I have not concealed 
thy loving-kindness and thy truth from the great 
assembly" (Psa. 40: 10), or with the prophet, "And 
if I say, I will not make mention of him, nor speak 
any more in his name, then there is in my heart as 
it were a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I am 
weary with forbearing, and I cannot contain " (Jer. 
20:9). 

But witnessing for our Savior is not limited to 
verbal testimony. Spiritual gifts differ, and if we 
can not successfully witness for him with the tongue, 
perhaps ours is the gift of the pen, or possibly that 
of silent example. Our talents are divergent, but all 
our endowment of divine power should be used to 
bring back a lost world into his Kingdom. Unless 
our daily life manifests his spirit, our words will 
hardly be admitted as valid testimony. The lack 
of accord between words and deeds may - possibly 
do more harm than good. There is no better means 
of witnessing for Christ than to put forth effort 
to bring others to him. Andrew immediately sought 
his brother, after he had found the Christ. Philip 
. extended his effort beyond immediate relatives and 
constrained Nathanael to " come and see. " 

Having the privilege of knowing him, and being 
talented sufficiently to be of some use to him, we do 
not meet his expectations of us unless we are wit- 
nesses for him. Instead, we are deserters, traitors, 
worthy of being court-martialed because of our neg- 
lect of and disobedience to his divine orders. Here- 
after may we be truer to him, obey his call to go 
wherever he desires, and ever keep his command- 
ments sacred. Such true witnessing is sure of prop- 
er reward. 

McPherson, Kans. 



One Way to Please Him 

BY ELSIE K. SANGER 

On one occasion it is said Lord Northcliffe was ap- 
proached by a poor man who requested the loan of a 
small sum of money. The request was abruptly re- 
fused. 

The poor man was about to turn away disconsolately, 
when the great nobleman bade him stay. Then, turn- 
ing to his desk, the lord drew a check for a substantial 
sum and handed it to his visitor, saying, as he did so : 
" I will not lend you money, but take this, my friend, 
and think no more about it." 

There are many, many folks — some Christians no 
doubt — who do not know yet that our God is more 
generous than Lord Northcliffe; that our Lord has 



" I Can't Get In " 

BY W. H. GAUNTT 

In a mill where I am employed there are several 
women and girls working. Recently the catch on a 
door that leads to the machine room was thrown in 
some manner, locking it. One of the girls said : " Billy, 
I can't get in." 

The remark thoroughly gripped me, the more so be- 
cause the person, being a member of the church, had 
only the night before absented herself from the com- 
munion table for some worldly pleasure. Will it be 
her doom when she comes to the door of the New Je- 
rusalem? " I can't get in." Will it be our lot? Let 
us be careful what we do, what we say, where we go, 
so that it may not be said to us : " You can't get in." 

Roanoke, Ind. ^^ 

There never was found in any age of the world, 
either philosopher or sect, or law, or discipline which 
did so highly exalt the public good as the Christian 
faith.— Bacon, 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



HOME AND FAMILY 



much as I do, I know, but you know the father does 
not need to be in the house all the time, where every- 
thing reminds one of the little fellow, and he said that 
when I felt unable to bear it I should run over to you. 
May I?" 

" Sure, dear, you may, and I am so glad if I can help 
you bear it all. There is One above who helps us most, 
yet I know from my own experience that there come 
times when we just must go to some one and cry it out 
and talk about the dear one who is gone." 

" Yes, Aunt Margaret, that is just the way it is. I 
want to talk about little Jamie to some one, and you 
know so many folks do not care to have one come to 
them and speak about departed friends. They seem to 
wonder why we want to speak of them. I heard a lady 
say the other day — she did not know I heard her — ' I 
do not see, if Mrs. Johnson cares so much about her 
baby, how she can be speaking of him so much.' 
decided then that I must keep it all to myself, unless I 
could come to you. Some one said you lost two little 
girls, and I knew you would understand just how I 
feel about my little boy. People must experience it be- 
fore they can understand. And do^ou not think there 
often is too much criticism made at the time people are 
doing the last things they can do for their loved ones? 
You know baby loved the little junior girls so much, 
and they carried him around whenever they could get 
him. I thought it would be so nice for them to carry 
his little body to the last resting place, and John thought 
so, too, so it was arranged that way. But the folks 
objected, and said that since he was a little boy it 
should have been boys to carry him. I guess it was 
foolish of me to care about that, but just then and 
there, and said as it was, it did hurt me. So often we 
hear remarks about the way this is done and that is 
done, whether this one cares very much, or why this 
one dressed as she did, etc. I know that when Mr. Bor- 
den died, and his wife did not wear black, she was 
criticised, when the poor woman did not have a black 
suit to wear. And besides, he did not like black and did 
not want her to wear it. Afterwards the children 
would say, ' Mother, please put on your pretty gray 
dress today ; we don't like that dark one.' Should one 
censure her for pleasing her little ones, rather than 
-following a foolish custom? Their pleasure meant 
more to her than the pleasing of critical folks who were 
only acquaintances. 

" Because she did not wear black, and because on 
Sundays she would take the children on long walks, to 
the creek and woods, and they did not see her weep, 
they said she was not minding her husband's death very 
much. The fact of it was, she could not endure the 
lonesome house any longer, and had to take the children 
out and get busy, lest she make life gloomy for them 
She would laugh and talk to her friends as usual and 
it did seem that she was soon forgetting her grief, but 
one evening I ran across lots, and as I came up to the 
chicken yard I heard crying, and she was out there, 
calling his name over and over and weeping as if her 
heart would break, 
beautiful day it is !" she added, as she picked up one of « j t j, e children and others she was brave, but I 
the tiny garments and seated herself in the other chair 1<new t ), at ^fen s he could bear it no longer she would 
near by. As the little woman watched, her tears welled t t j, e children busy at something inside, and then go 



TeU Her So 

Selected by Anna Stehman 

Amid the cares of married life, 
In spite of toil and business strife, 
If you value your sweet wife 
TeU her so I 

Prove to her you don't forget 
The bond to which the seal is set ; 
She's of life's sweets and the sweetest yet, 
Tell her so I 

When days are dark and deeply blue, 
She has her troubles, same as you, 
Show her that your love is true — 
Tell her sol 

There was a time you thought it bliss 
To get the favor of one kiss ; 
A dozen now won't come amiss — 
Tell her so I 

Your love for her is no mistake — 
You feel it dreaming or awake — 
Don't conceal it, for her sake, 
Tell her so I 

Don't act, if she has passed her prime, 
As though to please her were a crime, 
T& e'er you loved her, now's the time — 
TeU her so I 

She'll return for each caress, 
A hundredfold of tenderness. 
Hearts like hers were made to bless, 
Tell her so 1 

You are hers and hers ak>ne, 
Well you know she's all your own ; 
Don't wait to " carve it on a stone," 
Tell her so ! 

Never let her heart grow cold — 
Richer beauties will unfold; 
She is worth her weight in gold I 
Tell her sol" 
Manheim, Pa. . .», . 

Out at Uncle Joe and Aunt Margaret's 

BY NORA BERKEBILE 

It was a sunny autumn morning, and Aunt Mar- 
garet, having finished her morning's work, was prepar- 
ing to do some sewing for the little Barton twins. 
Scarcely had she commenced, when there was a timid 
knock on the door, and upon opening it she saw Mrs. 
Johnson, he,r new neighbor, timidly standing there, 
waiting to be asked to come in. Aunt Margaret always 
made every one welcome, and she was glad indeed to 
become better acquainted with her little Swedish 
neighbor. Mrs. Johnson was of Swedish descent only, 
but her blonde hair, blue eyes and fair skin proclaimed 
her parentage. 

" Take this chair by the stove, Mrs. Johnson. I am 
so glad to have you run in," said Auntie. "What a 



up in her eyes, and Aunt Margaret knew it was the 
thought of her little son that had been laid away just 
a few weeks before, that the sight of the little garment 
brought up, and she knew not how to comfort her, so 
she remained quiet until Mrs. Johnson spoke. 

" May I call you Aunt Margaret, like the rest of the 
folks do?" she timidly asked. " I could not stay in the 
house this morning, for I missed baby so much, and 
I just wanted to come to you, for you seem so motherly, 
and I have no mother any more. I just had to go to 
some one," and she ran to Aunt Margaret, laid her head 
in her lap and shook with sobs. 

Auntie let her have her cry out, and- just patted her 
shoulder and wept with her until her sobs ceased. At 
last she looked up into the older woman's face and said : 
" I know baby is better off where he is, but it is so lone- 
some without him. I have gathered up his little rattle 
and ring and the cap and sweater and the little shoes 
and put them away, for it breaks my heart to see them 
around ; but, somehow, it does not help, for every day I 
miss him more and more. I try to be brave, for John 
does not want me to cry so much. He loved him as 



out and cry it all out. And I can understand it now. 
I want to make it easier for John, and not weep so 
much ; so, if once in awhile I can come over here and 
can talk about Jamie, it will help, for I know you 
understand, and sometimes there is no place like a 
motherly lap in which to weep the heartache away." 

" Yes, dear heart, come when you feel that way, and 
if I can make it easier for you I will count it a priv- 
ilege. As for what people say, do not let thoughtless 
criticism bother you. You laid Jamie away so nicely, 
and did the very best you knew how, and tried to have 
what would please him best if he were to choose, so 
do not give that another thought. If people thought 
more at such times they would say less," said the older 
woman, as she brushed back the flaxen curls from the 
broad white forehead of the younger one and kissed 
her good-by. 

" It is thoughtful of you to want to be cheerful be- 
fore John and to want to make home happy for him. 
God will help you bear your grief, and heaven will 
grow dearer to you every day since Jamie is there, 
and in time you will feel glad he is safe, where no one 



or nothing can rob you of him. Come any time, and 
remember that I am your Aunt Margaret too." 
Jeivell, Ohio. .«. . 

"Thoughtful Anne" 

BY LEO LILLIAN WISE 

Aunt Ella, Cousin Martha and Priscilla were on 
the way to Daleville to spend the day with Anne. Pris- 
cilla drove the car carefully. The other two had more 
time to admire the wondrous beauties of nature. The . 
road wound around appealing curves, up and down 
hills. In the distance little valleys sparkled and shone 
in the sunlight. The magnificent trees fringing the hills 
stood even as though set out in rows. 

They passed an old milldam, a memorial to pioneer 
activity in days gone by. They took note of the new 
school building being erected, a mark of progress. Then 
they were greeting Anne, who made them welcome as 
ever. 

It was pleasant to be with Anne in her home. A 
glow of friendly hospitality pervaded the atmosphere. 
Anne went about her preparations for dinner — dis- 
playing a trait most admirable in a hostess. At the 
noon hour the appetizing meal was spread upon the 
table. The four surrounded the board and thanked the 
Heavenly Father for the gifts of his hand. And then 
Anne arose from the table, saying, " You just go ahead 
and eat. I want to fix a plate for a blind neighbor of 
mine. She lives alone and does for herself very nicely, 
but she does enjoy having a dinner brought in to her." 
The three watched Anne as she fixed the plate with 
mashed potatoes, covered with good gravy, some deli- 
cious chicken, browned to a nicety, and all the savory 
things that go with a good dinner. After Anne had 
gone out, each of the three expressed herself as being 
sure the dinner tasted ever so much better because of 
the kind act. 

That evening it was Priscilla who told the story to 
Uncle David. He sat quietly and listened, with the 
glow of interest sparkling in his eyes. Cousin Martha 
said, after Priscilla had finished, " Now David, confess 
that you think it was a lovely thing to do." 

" Surely it was a lovely and gracious thing to do. 
Thoughtful Anne, bless her heart ! To such as she and 
her kind the world owes much. We hear of the unfair 
deals in business life, see the petty thorns in social life, 
and even rub up against stickers in our religious life, 
so that at times we are almost tempted to forget the 
gracious deeds that are performed on every hand. 

"Just, suppose that for one day no one did a kind 
thing: would it not be a woeful day? Thank God that 
no day goes by without the blessings that oil the ma- 
chinery of life and make it more bearable. 

" The unconscious acts of good bring so much bless- 
ing. I mean doing the things to enrich other lives, be- 
cause it makes us feel happier to be doing them. Anne 
would not have felt comfortable eating her dinner had 
she not gone to her neighbor with a portion. But she 
did it out of kindness of heart, and made all of you 
feel that you wished you could write a poem or paint a 
beautiful picture about it. 

" We are not all likely to be given an opportunity to 
do great things, but somehow I believe the daily doing 
of the little deeds of kindness makes us fit for the su- 
preme test of big things when they come our way. 
If we have been thoughtful of others there will always 
be the charm of manner and grace of conduct in our 
dealings with others. We can not assume a part with 
which we are unfamiliar." 

Aunt Ella spoke decisively : " David, you are right. 
I always think of Lucile. She lived next door to us 
for some time, Cousin Martha. She was always mind- 
ful of the things her friends liked to do; knew some- 
thing of their peculiar failings and secret hopes, and in 
some way or other always manifested her interest in 
folks. Today she is matron in a home for business 
girls, in a large city, and is invaluable as a friend to 
girls." 

Priscilla yawned. " Say folks, let s not sermonize 
any more tonight. I have a full day ahead of me to- 
morrow and must be off to bed. But three cheers for 
Thoughtful Anne;" 
" And all of her kind," supplemented Uncle David. 

Bellefontaine, Ohio. 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



AMONG THE CHURCHES 



Calendar for Sunday, January 6 

Sunday-school Lesson, A Chosen Leader and a Chosen 
Land.— Gen. 12:1-7; 18:17-19. 

Christian Workers' Meeting, The Doctrine of God. — Isa. 
40:18-31. * * * + 

Gains for the Kingdom 

One baptism in the Detroit church, Mich. 
One baptism in the Patterson church, Calif. 
Four baptisms in the Springfield church, 111. 
Fourteen baptisms in the Rock Hill churchhousc, Augh- 
wick congregation, Pa. 

Two baptisms at Pleasant View, Tcnn., — Bro. J. R. Jack- 
son, of Relief, N. C, evangelist. 

Two baptisms in the Butte Valley church, Calif., — Bro. 
C. E. Davis, of Modesto, Calif., evangelist. 

Nine confessions at the Stone schoolhouse, Mich., — Bro. 
G. H. Killian, of Beaverton, Mich., evangelist. 

Five baptisms in the County Line church, Ohio, — Bro. A. 
M. Bashorc, of Lawrenceburg, Tcnn., evangelist. 

Seven baptisms in the Cassel Run church, Ohio, — Bro. 
H. M. Coppock, of Tippecanoe City, Ohio, evangelist. 

Seven baptisms in the Black Swamp church, Ohio, — 
Bro. A. M. Bashor, of Lawrenceburg, Tcnn., evangelist. 

Twelve were baptized and four reclaimed at Logansport, 
lnd., — Bro. J. Edwin Jarboe, of Lincoln, Nebr., evangelist. 
Three baptisms in the Peters Creek congregation, at 
Salem, Va., — Bro. Letcher Kinzie, of Salem, Va., evangelist. 
Twelve were baptized and one reclaimed in the Polo 
church. 111.,— Bro. L. H. Root, of Wetonka, S. Dak., evan- 
gelist. 

Three baptisms in the Pleasant Valley church, Ohio, — 
Bro. R. N. Leatherman, of West Alexandria, Ohio, evan- 
gelist. 

Eighteen were baptized and two reclaimed in the Moun- 
tain Grove church, Mo., — Bro. J. H. Morris, of Carthage, 
Mo., evangelist. 

Thirty-five were baptized and one reclaimed in the 
Brookville church, Ohio,— Bro. D. R. McFadden, of Smith- 
ville, Ohio, evangelist. 

Three were baptized and one received on former bap- 
tism in the Anderson church, lnd.,— Bro. B. F. Petry, of 
Eaton, Ohio, evangelist. 

One was baptized and three await the rite in the Turtle 
Mountain congregation, N. Dak.,— Bro. Earl L. Flora, of 
Carpenter, N. Dak., evangelist. 

Twenty-three baptisms and and four to be baptized in 
the Quinter church, Kans., — Bro. D. H. Keller, and wife, of 
Minneapolis, Minn., evangelists. 

Three baptisms at Pennersville, in the Antietam congre- 
gation. Pa.,— Bro. M. A. Jacobs, of Waynesboro, Pa., 
evangelist; three baptisms in the Rouzerville church, Pa., 
—Bro. John F. Graham, of Shippensburg, Pa., evangelist. 



Personal Mention 

Bro. L. Burnett, of Hickory Ridge, Ark., has been chosen 
pastor of the Austin church of that State. 

Bro. F. E. Miller, of Empire, Calif., has accepted the 
pastorate of the Patterson church, same State, for the 
coming year. 

Dr. M. J. Zigler, professor in Princeton University and 
cousin to our Home Mission Secretary, was one of our last 
week's visitors. 

Bro. D. P. Hoover has closed his work with the Mox- 
ham congregation and has taken pastoral charge of the 
Rummel church, Pa. 

North Dakota and Eastern Montana is to be represented 
on the Standing Committee of the next Conference by 
Eld. O. A. Myer. Eld. J. D. Kesler is the alternate delegate. 

We have the sad intelligence of the death of Eld. Alfred 
Kreps of Barlow, N. Dak., at the hospital in Carrington, 
Dec. 21, following an operation for appendicitis the pre- 
ceding day. 

Bro. Jerome E. Blough and wife have reached Southern 
California in their western travels and may be addressed 
at Buena Park, Calif., which will be their headquarters 
for several months. 

Bro. Clark C. Myers, who has recently taken up the 
pastorate of the Minot church, N. Dak., gave us a hurried 
call a few days ago. Bro. Myers had come back to the old 
home community in the Waddams Grove congregation, 
HI, to visit his father who is critically ill. 

The latest word from Africa, which is now some six 
weeks old, was to the effect that Bro. Helser's health con- 
tinued to improve. As the missionary party returns from 
the coast to the station at Garkida it takes longer for 
news to reach us, so we may expect longer intervals for a 
time between reports. 



Bro. D. E. Sower, of Middleton, Mich., has recently en- 
tered on the pastorate of the Black River church, North- 
eastern Ohio. 

A Conference with the ministers of Southeastern Kansas 
at Chanutc was on Bro. J. W. Lear's program for the early 
part of last week. 

Because of a change in rural postal routes Bro. J. 
Harvey Schrock changes his address from Middlebury to 
Goshen, lnd., R. 1, Box 23 B. 

Bro. Elmer L. Berkley, of Mount Pleasant, Pa., at pres- 
ent a Bethany student, came out to see the Publishing 
House a few days ago and gave the " Messenger " rooms a 
friendly call. 

Bro. A. B. Horst, lately of New Philadelphia, Ohio, has 
accepted the pastorate of the Greenwood church, North- 
eastern Ohio. His correspondents will note his new ad- 
dress, Brownsville, Ohio. 

Sister Poffinbarger and three children, all members of 
the Church of the Brethren, living at 1022 Osborne St., * 
Burlington, Iowa, are anxious to get in touch with the 
nearest congregation of our people, or with any of our 
members who may have opportunity to call on them or 
communicate with them. 

We are fortunate in having secured the services of Bro. 
J. Hugh Hecltman to write up the prayer meeting topics 
during Bro. Plate's illness. His first contribution will be 
found on the opposite page of this issue under the usual 
"Quiet Hour" heading. We are glad to know that Bro. 
Heckman's health continues to improve, even though very 
slowly. With the beginning of the year he hopes to 
resume his teaching, to a limited degree, in Bethany Bible 
School, * * * * 

Special Notices 

The La Verne College Bible Institute is to be held Feb. 
3 to 10, 1924. We note from a late issue of the " College Bul- 
letin " that Bro. E. B. Hoff, of Bethany Bible School, will be 
one of the instructors. 

Ministerial Program of Group No. 1, Northern Illinois 
and Wisconsin, to be held Jan. 15 at 1 P.M. in the Lanark 
church, III. Church Finance: Methods of Training in the 
Stewardship of Money.— John M. Roller. The Church 
Budget.— G. G. Canfield. Methods of Raising the Budget. 
—J. Emmert Stover. The Minister's Part in Church Fi- 
nance. — J. Clyde Forney. 

.;. 4» $» .-. 

Miscellaneous Mention 

The Georgetown congregation is the name of a new local 
church organization recently effected by the joint action 
of the Ludlow and Salem churches of Southern Ohio. 

Reporting the fifty-two baptisms at Ahwa. Dangs, India, 
on Sunday, Nov. 25, Bro. Adam Ebey says: "Worshipers 
of evil spirits believe on the Lord Jesus and rejoice in sal- 
vation through his blood." 

The Pleasant View church, Tenn., has had the misfor- 
tune to lose its house of worship by fire recently. It was 
built about forty-seven years ago. An effort will be made 
to rebuild soon, probably at a more favorable location. 

Occasionally a church correspondent tells of the, elec- 
tion of a young man or two to the ministry. But not 
very often. We wonder if our elders-in-charge every- 
where are keeping their eyes open to the needs and oppor- 
tunities along this line. 

The Figarden church, Calif., has lately appointed a 
Church Extension Committee to devise ways of reaching 
the people of the community more effectively. It has 
divided the membership into four groups, each with a sec- 
tion of the community to visit and invite to church. 

The Student Volunteer Quadrennial Conventions are 
among the greatest and most inspiring events on the mis- 
sionary calendar and of special interest to leaders of young 
people. So it is no wonder that Bro. C. H. Shamberger, 
Young People's Secretary, found that he would have to put 
the Indianapolis Convention in his program. 

The Empire church, Calif., seems to be well organized 
for work. It has the four divisions of Christian Workers, 
beginners, intermediates, young people and seniors. The 
deacon board of sixteen members is also fully organized 
to meet any emergency, says our correspondent, Bro. John 
W. Vetter. 

A young minister who has just entered on a new pastor- 
ate with a very promising outlook has these pertinent 
words in a recent letter to his flock: "That we may 
have strength and vision for our enlarged duties may there 
be a family altar in each of our homes; may the church 
publications have a place on our reading table; and as the 
Christ is present with those who assemble in his house, 
we should permit nothing to keep us from the public 
ministry of his Word. There is no more beautiful sight in 
this world than that of an entire family each Sunday go- 
ing up unto the house of the Lord." ' 
♦ ♦ * ♦ 
A Bystander's Notes 

The Magic of a Hearty Handshake.— A pastor who is 
firmly convinced that great power inheres in a cordial 
handshake, thus expresses himself on the subject: "What 



a blessed thing, all around, a good warm handshake is! 
It often does more real good to folks than a sermon. Ev- 
ery one can preach through the handshake, and why 
should not every one do it? Would it not, expeditiously, 
melt all the frigidity out of the atmosphere of more 
churches than one? Shake hands with your seatmate, 
shake hands with those you meet in the aisle. Perhaps 
some one objects, saying: "I do not know them!" Well, 
you do know at least the most important thing about 
them— they have come to church, seeking Christian fellow- 
ship and to worship God. What is a paltry introduction, 
or even knowing a name, to the higher privilege of meet- 
ing them face to face? Then don't let the artificial bar- 
riers, that social conventions have built between- folks, 
continue to separate them in the church, and cause the 
warm heart and the longing for fellowship, to be hidden 
under the cold stare and distant silence that petty etiquette 
may impose. Let the heart have its way, let the love 
of Christ reign— and shake hands I" 

Things to Remember.— (1) Do you know that one-third 
of the world is still illiterate, ignorant of the basic laws 
of true health, and beyond the reach of medical skill? 
(2) Do you know that the most far-reaching movements 
in human history are now taking place, affecting three- 
fourths of the human race? (3) Do you know that the 
thirst for Western education has gripped the Far East 
with a startling rapidity, breaking down age-long tradi- 
tions, as to womanhood and caste, and sending to school 
in Japan a larger proportion of children of school age 
than in any other land? Soon 50,000,000 will be at school 
even in China. (4) Do you know that doors, hitherto 
locked and barred, are now "off the hinges," with even 
the literati of China ready to hear the Gospel Message? 
Do you know that in the mass movements of India, scores 
of thousands are turned away from the church because 
there are no teachers to instruct them? (5) Do you know 
that America is growing rich at the rate of about nine 
millions a day— the wealth of Protestant church members 
in America alone being estimated at $23,000,000,000? (6) 
Do you know that not one-half of these church members 
contribute anything to the support of a local church, nor 
are they helping financially in the great work of mis- 
sions?'' (7) Do you know that Jesus Christ, the Great 
Captain, waits with the banner of the Cross in his hands, 
for his people, whom he has so richly blessed, to follow 
his lead? ^ * * * * 



Book Notices 

The Brethren Publishing House, Elgin, III., will be pleased to 
receive your order for any books reviewed in these columns, at 
the prices quoted. 

Cyclopedia of Sermon Outlines 

This new compilation of Aquilla Webb belongs to a 
class of helps that we have learned not to set too much 
store by. It has been said that the only persons who 
know how to use commentaries are the ones that do not 
need them. That is an overstatement, of course, but it 
suggests the truth, and that truth is applicable to most 
helps of a hpmiletic nature. 

These outlines have the merit of not being worked out 
with very much detail. They are not sermon skeletons 
for the preacher to hang the meat on. They consist most- 
ly of two or three or four leading ideas with stimulating 
comment. "When the fire burns low, when the mind is 
slow and the heart stolid, a message from these prophets 
of God will kindle the fire to a flame and the heart will 
burn once moi;e with the prophetic flame," says Charles 
L. Goodell in his introduction. If the book does this, and 
we believe it will for any preacher who uses it rightly, it 
will render a truly valuable service. The matter is gleaned 
from the best preachers, ancient and modern. There are 
336 pages and the price is $3.00. 

Men, Women, and God (Doran, $1.50) 

The "sex" question is as old as the human family. We 
are tempted, however, to feel at times that it is given 
greater publicity at the present than it has received at 
other times. That may be because we didn't live at other 
times and are inclined to indict our own day too severely. 
But anyone who reads current literature finds the ques- 
tion quite in the forefront. And the most optimistic will 
have to admit that no little amount of what is being writ- 
ten is quite lurid. And while one type of it is of that sort 
there is another extreme which falls short of highest 
usefulness simply because it is too extreme. 

So one does not pass it by lightly when a book like 
" Men, Women, and God," by A. Herbert Gray, conies to 
his attention. It is a book written with frankness upon 
subjects which were treated evasively not many years ago. 
But while we remained quiet upon these subjects we can 
not deny that they were some of the most persistent 
problems of our lives. 

Some have attempted to write or speak upon questions 
discussed in this book but, in spite of feheir good intentions, 
have had a negative effect upon those whom they address. 
Dr. Gray is positive in his influence. 

Church leaders working with young people should read 
" Men, Women, and God." It is my own conviction that it 
is a book which, if read by young people, will go a long 
way in giving the right perspective upon the sex problem. 

C. H. S. 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



AROUND THE WORLD 



A Cure for Paresis 

The Rockefeller Institute is about to release to physi- 
cians a new cure called tryparsamid or A-63, which is as- 
serted to show a fifty per cent result in the treatment of 
paresis and locomotor ataxia, according to a recent an- 
nouncement. If this new discovery proves as effective as 
is claimed for it, it will go down as one of the great dis- 
coveries. 

Nine Thousand a Month 

From Washington the commissioner of patents reports 
that an average of 9,000 applications for new patents reach 
his office every month. So many are the would-be in- 
ventors that 75,000 applications are on the waiting list. 
During the past year more than $3,000,000 in fees was 
collected, being the largest, amount ever collected in a 

single year. 

Italian Women to Vote 

Recently a special committee in Italy reported favorably 
to grant suffrage to about 4,000,000 Italian women. Among 
those who are recommended for this privilege are the fol- 
lowing: women who were decorated for war and civil 
service; mothers of soldiers killed in the war; women who 
have graduated from the elementary schools; women who 
can read and write, and women who pay taxes. 



No Nobel Peace Prize for 1922 

Although thirty names were considered as possibly 
worthy of the Nobel Peace Prize, the committee in charge 
finally decided that no one was entitled to this award in 
1922. It is unfortunate that in a year when so much has 
been said in favor of peace and when so much has been 
done in trying to promote peace, no outstanding piece 
of work was of sufficient importance to merit recognition 
by those awarding the Nobel Peace Prize. 



As Homes Go Out Crime Comes In 

There has been repeated reference to the increase of 
crime, especialy crime committed by boys and men young 
in years. Recently Judge W. C Harris, president of the 
Kansas State Bar Association, said : " The majority of 
crimes of today are committed by boys under twenty-one 
— seventy-five per cent by youths under twenty-five. The 
average home is nothing more than a place to eat and 
sleep. It has- ceased to be a shrine for moral and re- 
ligious training. Jazz life, cheap reading and cheap think- 
ing are the chief characteristics of modern people." 



For a Cleaner Stage 

From time to time attempts have been made to exclude 
from the stage that which is especially objectionable. John 
S. Sumner, who is superintendent of the New York Society 
for the Suppression of Vice, recently stated : " If the news- 
papers would stop pussyfooting and would come out with 
one blast against such and such a manager who is pro- 
ducing a 'rotten' show, there would be immediate results." 
He states that police action is ineffective because when 
those responsible are convicted for staging that which is 
indecent, the fines are so low and even then sometimes 
suspended, that they mean nothing to the offenders. 



Must the Stenographer Go? 

Is the stenographer, so common in the office today, 
about to go? Martin Bandill of Switzerland says he has 
perfected a machine which will make the stenographer 
unnecessary. This machine, he claims, will typewrite di- 
rectly from the human voice. The dictator speaks directly 
into a microphone arrangement and as a result sound 
waves are created which finally turn out the message 
in printed form. This seems hardly possible at present, 
but when we recall that it is only twenty years ago that 
the Wright brothers made their first successful flight in a 
flying machine, one may not be dogmatic as to what the 
future will be. But what will the manager do when he 
can not charge his mistakes to the stenographer? 



Rebuilding the Human Body 

That the shattered or worn-out human body may be 
rehabilitated by* methods not unlike those used by a skill- 
ful cabinetmaker in repairing furniture, and that automatic 
machine-driven tools are playing a greater and greater 
part in reparative surgery, were facts forcibly brought 
out at the convention of the American College of Sur- 
geons at Chicago. One of the best points about automatic 
machine-driven surgical tools is that it reduces the shock 
of operation, because of the speed. A splendid example 
of this human carpentry is that of splicing a kneecap 
with living bone. A split kneecap being difficult to reknit, 
a bone inlay wasresorted to. The kneecap was bared of 
skin, flesh and membrane, and a double T-shaped section 
sawed out and chiseled loose. Hot sterile paraffin was 
poured into this hole and left to harden into a mold which 
was then mapped out .carefully on the front of the shin 
bone. This inlay was then cut out of the shin bone and 
trimmed up carefully with a circular saw, before being 
hammered into place in the split kneecap. 



Our National Roads 

When the Federal Highway Act was passed the total 
mileage of our roads in America was 2,859,575. Ac- 
cording to the provisions of this act not more than 200,170 
miles of road can be improved. At present we have 26,536 
miles of improved roads. The approved systems of roads 
in thirty-five States now pass through 1.049 out of 1,111' 
cities having a population of more than 5,000. When the 
federal system of roads is joined with those constructed 
by cities and counties, all the remaining cities of the S.000 
population class will be connected by a vast chain of in- 
terstate roads. Then 90 per cent of the entire population 
of the country will live within ten miles of an improved 
highway, and in some States the percentage will be near- 
ly one hundred. 

Liberty for War Prisoners 

The action of President Coolidge ordering the release 
of thirty-one of the thirty-two men still confined in our 
federal prisons on account of their opinions or acts in 
connection with the war was approved by some and con- 
demned by others. The order was that these men were 
to be released in time to spend Christmas at home. Chris- 
tian sentiment in general approves their release. It is a 
■well known fact that in times of war passion has full 
sway and to protect itself the government takes nothing 
for granted. There can be no doubt but that, many who 
are enjoying freedom and immunity for crimes which are 
even more injurious to the government than were the 
utterances of some of -those war prisoners, are enjoying 
liber*ty with no prospect of ever being imprisoned. As 
proof of this statement notice how the violators of the 
prohibition amendment escape arrest or arc punished with 
very small fines when convicted, instead of being given 
the limit of the law as were those arrested during the 

time of the war. 

Age Is No Bar to Achievement 

From Austin, Texas, comes the somewhat surprising re- 
port that Mrs. Henry Clay Wright, of that city, at the- 
age of eighty, has made her debut as a concert singer in 
New York. Mrs. Wright has been married for fifty-seven 
years. She has four children and seven grandchildren. 
She has sung in her church chorus for more than fifty 
years. All her life she has yearned for a wider musical 
sphere, but life and its duties somehow prevented. At 
last, however, she saw a chance of realizing her life's am- 
bition. Judging by the reception given this sweet, strong 
old lady, singing charming old songs in a voice that never 
lost its youth, it may be assumed that she will be heard 
by many another approving audience. Mrs. Wright,- at 
her advanced age, is young in spirit and courageous in en- 
deavor, excelling many that are twenty or thirty years 
younger. Refusing to grow old, she radiates cheer to all 

whom she meets. — 

Secretary Davis Turns Preacher 

On the Sunday before Christmas Secretary James J. 
Davis stood in the little Welsh Baptist pulpit of Sharon, 
.Pa., where he had been a Sunday-school boy years past. 
Following is a part of what he said: "I hold a deep and 
abiding faith in the firmness of the foundation of true 
religion, and I can see but little in the future for those 
who seek to tear down that foundation. To my mind true 
science and true religion can march forward hand in hand, 
and science need not seek to destroy that for which 
Christmas stands. In these days of many strange and 
weird beliefs we must hold fast to our faith in God, else 
neither individual nor nation can endure. I will take my 
religion in the old-fashioned way. We are becoming so 
modern in everything that some of us are even trying to 
modernize God. I like the old-fashioned preacher, whose 
sermon comes from his heart and soul as well as from his 
mind. His is no coldly statistical religion, charted by 
mental engineers and analyzed by theological chemists. 
He rests his faith on the Bible, the greatest Book the 
world has ever known." 

Why Not Also Moral and Economic Assistance? 

When the great war raged, before America entered the 
contest, she was furnishing munitions and supplies freely. 
Of course after America entered the war her munitions 
and supplies were directed by the government itself. Now 
that the war is over there has been a difference of opinion 
as to what America's attitude should be in the rebuilding 
of Europe. President Faunce, of Brown University, states 
his mind clearly and forcibly in the following: "The mind 
of America is overwhelmingly in favor of giving moral and 
economic assistance to Europe. That our peace-loving na- 
tion should be perfectly willing to furnish Europe with 
munitions and soldiers in time of war, but refuse to furnish 
any counsel or sympathy in time of peace— that is an 
ironic attitude we can not long endure But have we not 
given much charitable relief? Oh, yes, we have run the 
ambulance to pick up the wounded, while taking no steps 
to prevent war. We have fed the hungry after famines 
and panics which we lifted no hand to hinder. Preventive 
charity is the kind the world most needs, and that we have 
refused to give. Why? Because we have allowed par- 
tisan politics to paralyze our government. The department 
of state has gone step by step toward Europe, only to be 
pulled back by political machinations in America or in 



THE QUIET HOUR 



Su (mentions for the Weekly Devotional Meeting Or for 
Prayerful, Private Meditation. 



An Invitation We Must Not Miss 

Isaiah 55: I 
For Week Beginning January 13, 1924 

1. This Invitation Was First Extended to Wayward 

.in. l;..ii. — We are not concerned here with a literal famine 
of water and food. There are things worse than that. 
Judah was suffering from a famine of righteousness. 
Against her sins of disloyalty to God the prophet Isaiah 
stood out for forty years in rebuke, warning, and appeal. 
His success was only moderate, but, having himself tasted 
of the goodness of God, he could not refrain from sound- 
ing forth an invitation for others to enjoy the same spirit- 
ual blessings. 

2. This Invitation Suggests the Appeal of the Christian 
Gospel.— "I am the bread of life" (John 6:48). "Who- 
soever drinketh of the water that T shall give him shall 
never thirst" (John 4:14). "Come unto me, all ye that 
labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest " (Matt. 
11:28). "Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after 
Righteousness: for they shall be filled" (Matt. 5:6). "The 
free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" 
(Rom. 6:23). 

3. This Invitation Is Addressed to Primary Human Need. 
— The soul of man naturally seeks after God. Sin may de- 
base the human heart, but it can never wholly stifle the 
longing after God. It never was intended that man should 
he left to his own resources. God always sought to cooper- 
ate with him and supply his need (Philpp. 4:19). Com- 
panionship with God alone gives satisfaction in living and 
fearlessness in dying, The spiritual nature of man normal- 
ly cries out the declaration of Psa. 42: 1, 2. 

4. This Invitation Is Based Upon the Inexhaustible 
Riches of God.— God's goodness is its foundation. He will 
forgive men's sins. He will restore the sinner. He will 
endow human life anew with fullness and power which 
relieves spiritual poverty. God's generous bestowal of un- 
merited love is supremely revealed in the sacrificing life 
of Christ. 

5. To Miss This Invitation Means to Miss the Way of 
Life.— Many in Judah ignored it, and their dishonor to God 
brought shame upon them as a race and nation. "The 
way of the transgressor is hard." "The way of the un- 
godly shall perish." But the way of the godly is blessed 
for evermore. They have partaken of the water of life. 

Suggestions for Prayerful Meditation 

How do people act who are spiritually athirst? 

What is the act of coming to the water 6~f life? 

By whom is God's gracious invitation to be extended? 

Mow much satisfaction has our acceptance of Christ 
brought? 

Has our community been thoroughly furnished" with 
spiritual food? A Proyei . 

Gracious Father, we thank thee for thy generous pro- 
vision for the restoration of sinful men. Thy unselfishness 
makes us humble; our self-will makes us ashamed. The 
intoxicating spirits of worldliness have nauseated us, and 
we thirst for the water of life. The husks of wickedness 
do not satisfy, and we long for the bread of heaven. Thy 
heralds of truth have spoken thy invitation, and we come 
rejoicing, to feast upon thy bounties. Lord, supply them 
to us richly in Christ Jesus. Then shall we be strong to 
walk in the paths of life and guide men in the truth of 
thy Kingdom. May it never be said of us that we have 
failed to find thee, nor that others have had no invitation 
to thee because of us. For Jesus' sake. Amen. 



France. We praise peace, but want politics. Until we 
want to win peace more than to win an'election, we shall 
live in a stricken and crumbling world." 

America's Policy Defined 

It naturally falls to Secretary Hughes to be spokesman 
for policies dealing with foreign relations. Recently in 
discussing the Monroe Doctrine Mr. Hughes defined Amer- 
ica's policy as he sees it in the following terms: "Gen- 
erally our policies toward Europe may thus be summar- 
ized- We are still opposed to alliances. We refuse to 
commit ourselves in advance with respect to the employ- 
ment of the power of the United States in unknown con- 
tingencies. We reserve our judgment to act upon occasion 
as our sense of duty permits. We are opposed to discrim- 
inations against our nationals. We ask fair and equal op- 
portunities in mandated territories, as they were acquired 
by the allies through our aid. We desire to cooperate ac- 
cording to our historic policy in the peaceful settlement of 
international disputes, which embraces the policy of judi- 
cial settlement of such questions as are justiciable. It is 
our purpose to cooperate in those varied humanitarian ef- 
forts which aim to minimize or prevent those evils which 
can be met adequately only by community of action. 



10 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



A Reasonable and Practical Faith 

(Continued from Page 3) 

Christianity, therefore, offers a salvation which saves ; 
a salvation which has saved men of all ages and stations 
in life; a salvation which is today manifesting the same 
power that it has always had, and to which, we may 
reasonably believe, there is no limit. The salvation it 
offers changes both men and society. It is both indi- 
vidual and social. It saves society through the regener- 
ation of individuals, and their activity in the expression 
of Christian principles. 

Other Christian doctrines might be presented, but 
the doctrines of God, of man, and of salvation are suffi- 
cient to indicate that there are fundamental values in 
the Christian faith which reasonably lay claim to per- 
manent and universal validity. 

Such Permanent Values Do Not Exclude Either Growth in 
Appreciation or Adaptation to Changing Conditions 

The next step will now lead us to inquire : " What 
can be said to the one who holds the radical static point 
of view?" Can Christianity adapt itself to changing 
conditions and still maintain its vital power? Are there 
changing elements in Christianity? The first fact to 
be noted here is that Jesus himself penetrated beneath 
the forms of religion to the inner essence. He did this 
in dealing with the moral principles of the law (Matt 
5: 17-48). He did it with reference to ceremonial regu- 
lations (Matt. 15: 1-20; 23:23-26). He did it in re- 
gard to institutions (Matt. 12:1-13). He never al- 
lowed forms or institutions to hamper the expression 
of the deepest religious and moral values. It mattered 
not how deeply these forms or institutions were in- 
grained in the thought and practice of his age — they 
had to be altered in those points wherein they no longer 
expressed the most vital religious and moral values. 
Further, Jesus discriminated values, even within the 
realm of positive principles. He did not regard all the 
commandments as of equal importance. He found in 
the commandments to love God and to love one's 
neighbor, the fundamental principle and essence of the 
law. He was not afraid to search deeply for that which 
was essential and that which was accessory. 

The Christian dare not hesitate to follow his Master 
here, even though it means work. There are many 
Christians who are capable of thinking for themselves 
but who, either through an undue reverence for tradi- 
tion or through sheer intellectual laziness, are satisfied 
to take wholesale what is handed down to them from 
their fathers, without any effort to examine its meaning 
or to appropriate its values. This attitude is what 
brings reaction against the church and leads thinking 
people, in some circles, to regard Christianity as out- 
grown and impractical. Any Christian doctrine, to be 
vital, must be understood and applied in the light 
of one's experience. Otherwise it is only a form, and 
does not touch the springs of life and conduct. 

The next fact to consider is that the early Apostolic 
Church adapted itself to conditions as they arose. This 
was true in the realm of organisation. When a new 
situation arose, in which material needs had to be given 
more consideration, the church adapted her organiza- 
tion, so that it would meet the new situation. And 
this adaptation was under the guidance of the Holy 
Spirit. The result was progress and success (Acts 6 : 
1-7). Again, the Holy Spirit led the Antioch church to 
meet her enlarged opportunity by the setting apart of 
missionaries, with the same happy result of growth and 
larger serviceability (Acts 13: Iff). This adaptation 
to conditions also appears in the early church's view of 
the application and scope of the Christian movement 
It was a long step from the conception of Christianity, 
as a Jewish sect, finding its activity inside of Judaism 
and possibly soon to be swallowed up in the consumma- 
tion of a temporal Jewish Messianic kingdom, to the 
conception of Christianity as a universal religion, with 
the task of transforming the world of men of all na- 
tions into the spiritual kingdom of its Christ. But this 
step was taken by the early followers of Christ, and 
under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, too (Acts 8 
10, 11; 16:6-10). 

At what point in the history of the church could this 
process have stopped ? The Holy Spirit was given to 
guide Christians into all truth and to lead them into the 
pnderstanding and the application of the teachings of 



Christ. This Spirit guidance stilf continues. In the 
individual and in the church, comprehension and ap- 
plication of truth is limited by circumstances and by 
the degree of response. The Spirit of God is present 
and is ready to lead into boundless growth as these 
limits are removed. 

What, then, may be said in conclusion ? (1) We 
need not fear the loss of the fundamental values of 
Christianity. These are permanent and universal. We, 
therefore, have reasonable and secure grounds for that 
faith and conviction which is essential to aggressive 
action. The quibbling and opposition of faithless men 
can not, then, shake the structure of our faith and re- 
ligion. We, then, have the grounds for a vital, personal, 
religious experience and for a convincing testimony to 
others. (2) We likewise need not fear change and 
growth, in comprehension of truth or the application of 
our religion to the needs of our age or environment. 
The needs of the world are manifold today. And every 
one of them is a challenge and a demand that we yield 
ourselves to the Spirit, so that he can lead us to make 
any necessary adaptation, or use any method necessary 
to meet that need. 

Is Christianity able to meet the needs of the world? 
All of us answer, " Yes." Is it meeting those needs in 
the largest way ? We are compelled to answer, " No." 
We, the exponents of Christianity, must, therefore, 
bend every effort to understand these needs — search 
and wait humbly before God for his message, and the 
method of applying it to the needs of the world. In 
such measure as we do this, Christianity becomes 
.practical and becomes the universal religion. In such 
measure as we do this, we can prove a reasonable faith. 

Chicago, III. — •— 

The Bridgewater-Daleville System of Schools 

BY JNO. S. FLORY 

The above is the name of probably the latest educational 
development among us as a church. It came into being 
Nov. 23, 1923, when the trustee boards of Bridgewater and 
Daleville Colleges, in joint session, decided to merge the 
two institutions into one educational system. Under this 
arrangement Bridgewater will be the college of the system 
and Daleville the academy. 

But perhaps we should go back to the beginning. About 
a year ago the matter of coordinating our educational in- 
terests in the South was informally suggested. This sug- 
gestion led to a personal conference of the heads of the 
two institutions. This conference led to the appointment 
by the respective trustee bodies of committees for further 
conferences. These committees held two meetings dur- 
ing the last school session, one in February and another in 
April. At the latter of these conferences a general agree- 
ment was arrived at, by which the matter of merging the 
two institutions was to be presented to the various District 
Conferences of the two school regions for their approval 
or rejection. It was decided that when the majority of 
the State Districts in each school region approved the 
proposition to merge, the matter would again be taken 
up by the committees. 

The proposition was presented to each of the District 
Conferences at their regular meetings, and of the eight 
Districts owning and controlling the two schools, seven of 
the conferences approved the plan without qualification, 
while the eighth placed it on the minutes of the meeting 
for further consideration. In view of this practical unani- 
mity of sentiment the matter was again taken up by the 
two boards, with the result above stated. 

The resolution merging the two institutions reads as fol- 
lows : 

" Whereas, The State Districts owning and controlling Bridge- 
water and Daleville Colleges, assembled in their respective District 
Conferences, have, through their official delegates, endorsed the 
recommendation that our two schools be merged and federated 
into a system of schools of the Church of the Brethren in the South; 

" Therefore, Be it resolved, That we, the trustees of Bridgewater 
and Daleville Colleges, assembled in joint session on this, the twenty- 
third day of November, Nineteen hundred and twenty-three, do, by 
the passage of this resolution, merge our two schools into one system. 
Their territories, constituencies and resources, except as hereafter 
provided, shall be held in common and utilized to the highest and 
best interests of the church and the young people whom we seek to 
serve. These schools shall hereafter be operated and administered 
under such type of organization as shall be mutually agreed upon." 

Arrangements were made to secure a charter for the 
new system, and by-laws for its organization were drawn 
up and tentatively adopted. Under the plan proposed, a 
general executive committee shall have charge of the 
common interests of both institutions, and shall function 
in the interval between meetings of the board. A com- 
mittee on finance and investment, also a committee on 
instruction, was elected. Besides these a local executive 
committee is to be appointed for each institution. 

A general organization was effected for the system, as 
follows: Eld. H. G. Miller was elected president emeritus 



of the new board; Eld J. A. Dove, president of the board; 
Supt. J. C. Myers, first vice-president; W. P. Crumpacker, 
second vice-president; Jno. S. Flory, secretary. After this 
organization was effected, Dr. Paul H. Bowman was 
elected president of the college. 

The colleges entering into this organization have had 
honorable careers. Bridgewater College was founded in 
1880, and is therefore completing its forty-fourth consec- 
utive session. It is third in order of age of our educa- 
tional institutions, and was the first college of the church 
to give the full college course. This is the thirty-third 
session for Bridgewater as a four-year senior college. In 
1891 three young men graduated from the college with 
the degree of Bachelor of Arts, the first class to receive a 
college degree from an educational institution of the 
church in its entire history. Since, then Bridgewater has 
gradually developed, has always maintained high standards 
of scholarship and conduct, and has for more than a decade 
been fully accredited by the State Board of Education in 
Virginia as a standard college of the first grade. 

Bridgewater is on the " B " list of the Southern Educa- 
tional Association. This gives to the college graduates 
privilege to teach on their diplomas in any of the thirteen 
States in the Southern Association. The only point on 
which they may be discriminated against is when they 
enter the larger universities for graduate study. The only 
reason why Bridgewater has not been admitted to the "A" 
list of the Southern Association is the lack of endowment. 
The rule requires $500,000 of productive endowment for 
admission to full membership in the Association, and no 
college is admitted without 100 per cent efficiency in this 
respect. Bridgewater has served the church in large 
measure. Twenty-one of her sons and daughters have 
gone as missionaries to the heathen world; many others 
are serving in the churches as pastors and elders, as edu- 
cators and in many other capacities. 

The service of Daleville likewise has been of a high or- 
der. Started in 1890, it has served the southern section of 
our Brotherhood consistently for a third of a century. 
It is represented in the foreign mission field, and its grad- 
uates are filling positions of responsibility as pastors of 
churches, in the fields of religious education, and many 
other vocations. 

The merging of these two schools into one system is 
bringing to pass an ideal which has been cherished by 
some among us for a good many years. It certainly will 
result in economy of educational administration and equip- 
ment, and also in the efficiency with which the work can 
be done. It makes possible the building of a* Brethren col- 
lege in the South on a scale not hitherto possible. The 
merging makes available for college patronage a large 
territory consisting of the States of Virginia, West Vir- 
ginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, 
Florida, Alabama, and parts of Kentucky and Mississippi. 
In this territory resides a population of the Church of the 
Brethren of approximately 22,000 members. 

As to the academy, this arrangement provides for the 
building of an institution that will be unique in our 
Brotherhood. As nearly all of our colleges are dropping 
the academy, this will make possible the building up at 
Daleville of a high-grade institution of secondary rank, 
which will provide such a religious and academic environ- 
ment as many Christian parents demand for their sons and 
daughters. Located in a beautiful rural section, with a 
good suite of buildings, free from the distractions- inci- 
dent to city life, the school can provide our young people 
with educational facilities under ideal conditions. 

It is believed that in merging these institutions a long 
step forward has been taken in the educational work of 
the church. It is generally recognized that we have more 
schools— certainly more of the same type— than the church 
can support or really needs. The time is here when we 
need to correlate and coordinate the educational interests 
of the Brotherhood and provide such facilities and oppor- 
tunities for the education of our young people as the good 
of the church demands. And it should be the earnest desire 
of each one'of our individual schools to become a party to 
a plan thus to coordinate our educational interests. 
Bridgewatev, Va. 



CORRESPONDENCE 



INDIAN MISSION CONFERENCE 

Our Indian Mission gatherings are looked forward to 
as a time of pleasant fellowship and renewed inspiration. 

The first formal meeting was of a social nature, being a 
reception to Brother and Sister D. J. Lichty. Their wed- 
ding had occurred in Bombay less than a month before, 
and for most of the missionaries it was the first oppor- 
tunity since the event to meet and congratulate them. 
After several years of patient resignation in the home- 
land, Sister Lichty has been permitted to return to India. 
We all rejoice with them, and pray God's choicest bless- 
ings on their service in India. 

Another occasion of joy was the coming of the Mow 
party. On the third day of the meeting this party arrived 
in Bombay, and they came immediately to Bulsar. The 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



11 



joy of the entire party was manifest. Because of ill health 
Sister Swartz had been detained in America for nearly 
four years. Sister Anetta Mow had returned to America 
early for furlough, while for Brother and Sister Mow the 
occasion was the fulfillment of a long-cherished ambition. 

The business sessions of the conference were preceded by 
an evening and two full days of devotional meetings. Dur- 
ing these days Bro, Blough conducted a series of four 
Bible studies on missionary lessons from the apostle Paul. 
Paul wrote to the Corinthians to be imitators of him, and 
all missionaries find in Paul a worthy pattern for study. 

In addition to Bro. Blough's Bible studies, Sister Alice 
Ebey, Bro. Lichty, Bro. E. H. Eby, and Sister Sadie Miller 
read helpful papers on various phases of missionary work. 
Sister Anna Lichty reminded us of what the home church 
expects of the missionary, and Bro. Wagoner discussed 
the vital subject of efficient missionary cooperation. This, 
Bro. Wagoner defined, as work which is without friction 
or wasted energy, and which proceeds steadily toward a 
definite goat 

On both days of the devotional meetings one hour was 
given to praise, prayer and intercession. An upper room 
of the church was reserved also as a prayer room, and was 
open day and night to all who wished a quiet place for 
prayer and meditation. The morning watch was observed 
in bungalows from 6:30 to 7, and during this period our 
thoughts were united through special watch-cards pre- 
pared by the evangelistic committee. 

All of these devotional features formed an excellent 
preparation for the opening of the business session 
on Friday, and together with the other factors helped to 
produce one of the best mission meetings we have had. 

The business session opened on Friday morning, Nov. 
9. The first business was the putting into force of the new 
constitution governing our work. This constitution pro- 
vides for two mission meetings annually, and places the 
disposal of urgent matters arising between meetings in the 
hands of an executive committee of five members. 

Bro. Blough was chosen President of the conference, 
Bro. Lichty Vice-President, Bro. Blickenstaff Secretary 
and Treasurer, and Sister Anetta Mow Assistant Secre- 
tary. The President and Vice-President, together with 
Bro. I. S. Long, Sister Alice Ebey and Bro. J. I. Kaylor, 
constitute the executive committee. 

Through the various committees many recommendations 
were brought to the consideration of the conference. 
The recommendations covered a wide scope, and showed a 
forward look on the part of the various committees. In 
the educational department, steps were taken to provide 
in Gujarati suitable material for teaching reading by the 
story method. Bro. Long and one of our .Indian brethren 
have been sent to Moga, in North India, to spend four 
months in studying the project method of education, which 
is in use there- We are on the threshold of a new day in 
both methods and curriculum for village schools. 

The health of missionaries and Indian Christians called 
for some consideration from various angles. Steps were 
taken, providing for annual medical inspection of our 
boarding schools, and our doctors are arranging for a 
regular physical examination of all missionaries. Bro. 
Hollenberg's health is not at all good, but it is hoped that 
he will yet be able to ^regain it in India. Bro. Adam 
Ebeys were granted a six weeks' vacation immediately, 
that Bro. Ebey might have opportunity for health im- 
provement. Bro. Ebey's service has been very faithful, 
indeed, and everybody is glad that he may have this much- 
needed rest. 

The following location of missionaries was made: 
Brother and Sister Lichty, Vali; Brother and Sister Sum- 
mer, Umalla; Brother, and Sister Mow, Vyara; Sister 
Swartz, Vada. Sister Anetta Mow had previously been lo- 
cated at Vyara. Sister Royer may now return to Dahanu 
from Vada, and will have charge of the girls' school there 
when Miss Ebbert proceeds on her furlough. Miss Swartz 
and the Butterbaughs will attend the language school at 
Mahabaleshwar during the hot season. A joint language 
school is also planned for Gujarat, and two representatives 
on the governing board were appointed. 

The conference named Bro. Blough as our representative 
on the Bombay Christian Council, an organization of which 
he has been named chairman. This council is made up of 
representatives from the various churches and missions of 
Western India. Our two District Meetings each send one 
representative to this council. 

- Bro. Summer gave a report of the great spiritual life 
conference at Sialkot, which he and Govindji Satwadi had 
attended. It is hoped such a conference may be developed 
in the Gujarati language area, and recommendations were 
made by the evangelistic committees for spiritual life con- 
ferences, in both the Marathi and Gujarati sections of our 
churches. Our goal in India is a Spirit-filled, self-govern- 
ing and self-propagating church, and consideration was 
given by the conference to all phases of this question. 
Definite plans are being made. We can not go forward 
without the prayer and support of all in the homeland. 
May He help us to do our part in India 1 

The next regular conference will meet at Bulsar on 
March 4. C, G. Shull. 

Ahwa, Dangs. 



DIARY LEAVES 

Luray. Vs., Dec. 5 

I took the train at Akron at 4 A. M. Tuesday, in the 
hope that I might be present at the meeting in North Can- 
ton Monday night, as well as the services here last night. 
But it rained and rained, and so we have had no meeting 
here at all, though my visit with the Sowerses and Spitlers 
and Sticklers and Huffman s was greatly enjoyed. 

New Market, V<»., Dec. 7 

In the home of Eld. J. S. Roller the subject of conver- 
sation is Missions and the Church. Sister Roller is from 
Iowa and a former student of Mount Morris College. 
Amidst the hills here, which are called mountains, I can 
not but have the feeling, "As the mountains are round 
about Jerusalem, so the Lord is round about his people 
henceforth." One feels in these valleys that religion is at 
par; that the folks who dwell here dwell near to God. 

The funeral of aged Sister Huffman was at the Fair- 
view house today. The folks gathered in. The congrega- 
tion sang thoughtfully, and sang the whole hymn through, 
five verses. Then, after prayer, they sang again, and Bro. 
Roller spoke. There was no hurry. There was a kindly 
touch to every tender feeling. He was followed by another, 
who spoke of God's goodness and of his love, He was 
followed by a third, who referred to what the saintly sis- 
ter had been to him in life. Thus over an hour went. In 
the cemetery two hymns were sung as the grave was filled, 
after which was the benediction. Then slowly and quietly, 
children and grandchildren, friends and neighbors, with- 
drew. A saint had been laid to rest, and all rejoiced in the 
bright hope of the better land. 

Broadway, Va, Sunday, Dec. 9 

Yesterday, as we came into town, I was told that the 
sisters were having a "white sale," to which my response 
was " Let's go." And we went. They got the use of a large 
hall in town, and brought in for sale such things as they 
had made during the past several months: aprons, sun- 
bonnets, quilts, needlework and fancy work. Then, too, 
they had pies for 20c each, cakes, pop-corn, butter, cheese, 
sausage, turnips, celery, apples, and canned things. It was 
new to me. A missionary is liable to get out of step with 
the procession. The folks all seemed so much to enjoy 
the effort, selling the things they had made. And when the 
day was done they had $60 to the good. They have such a 
sale twice a year. I asked myself, "Why not?" There 
can be no possible objection, except that we did not do so 
long, long ago. And this objection falls to the ground if 
folks who ride in autos give it. On the other hand, there 
are large possibilities. A healthy religious spirit must find 
some expression, else it will be smothered to death. Why 
not add a table of 5 and lOc-things? Bro. Trimmer, of 
Carlisle, Pa., is a 5 and lOc-store man. Why not add a 
table of missionary and religious literature? The Pub- 
lishing House at Elgin is able to supply that need exceed- 
ingly well — if you go after them. Great things may be 
expected of our Sisters' Aid. It is a wonder that our 
brethren who are called lay-brethren do not catch the 
spirit and enter into the inheritance which is theirs, when 
once they have found it out. Meanwhile, we men ask the 
sisters to help us raise funds to help paint churches, build 
houses, etc. It would serve us right if they were to tell us 
presently that they have some plans of their own. 

I need hardly add that I greatly enjoyed being in the 
homes of Eld. I. W. Miller and John C. Myers. Bro. Myers 
is County Superintendent of schools in Rockingham Coun- 
ty, and has 260 teachers and 115 schools under his super- 
vision. And Sister Myers is President of the Aid. 

This Linville Creek congregation is historic. In the 
older part of the cemetery, I copied these words from a 
stone: "Elder John Kline, killed June 15 1864, aged 66 
yrs, 11 mo, & 28 ds." Last night services in the Linville 
Creek house, and this morning Sunday-school. Then we 
went to the Cedar Run house for preaching and worship. 
Later in the day we had the opportunity I had oft desired 
(with the Myerses), to retrace the path where Bro. John 
Kline went, and to search out the spot where he was 
killed. He had been out doing church work and was re- 
turning home on horseback, when some ruffians who were in 
hiding — for the road was through the bush and to hide 
was easy — shot him in the back. He fell mortally wounded, 
and a stone now marks the spot. We sought out the 
stone, walked round it, pictured to ourselves the way in 
which our brother went, looked over into the valley where 
he had gone, tried to imagine the sorrow of those whom 
he had visited, and spoke of the remorse which must 
have been the long-continued expesience of the cowards 
who did the deed, as they saw the love and esteem of all 
the community for the one they had martyred. He was 
a pacifist. He did not believe in war, and it was war- 
time. Those who shot him believed in war, they were 
condemned by him, their own consciences condemned 
them, they stood condemned at the bar of God. He was a 
peace martyr. This is the way truth wins. 

Truth may not always carry flags and streamers. It 
must oft go down to the very bottom of bitter ex- 
perience, that the nature of error may be clearly estab- 
lished. And truth can not well use the weapons which er- 
ror uses. It is fallacy to fight a war to end war. 



Brock's Gap, Va, Monday, Dec. 10 

I made my home at the tollgate with Bro. H. O. Turner. 
Both meetings were well attended, and the folks seem to 
want preaching. The offering was liberal, but compared 
to the needs of the field, and the door of opportunity, I 
fear I do not well to say any of these offerings are liberal. 
When $10 goes for a new tire, twenty-five cents sings a 
sorry song in the collection basket, for the mission work, 
for the greatest work in the world. Pray the Lord of the 
harvest that his people may have eyes to see the ripe fields. 

Home: Mount Morris, 111. Wilbur B. Stover. 



BULSAR NOTES 



The two boarding schools are running steadily with a 
regular attendance and fair health. The annual inspection 
disclosed a few weak points but on the whole satisfactory 
work is being done and the grant-in-aid was increased for 
next year. 

Some of the boys are supporting themselves in the 
shops while studying Bible and English. We are eager 
that more and more boys will become self-supporting. 

Some twenty Bible classes- are conducted weekly in the 
upper standards of the school. Several boys are in the 
Government Anglo-vernacular and High Schools, and these 
get Bible instruction from the missionary in charge. These 
boys also do work in the shops. 

Gardening is going apace and soon the boys will be 
having green vegetables, a very necessary part of their 
diet. A fresh buffalo cow is supplying the needed milk. 
A large supply of native sorghum has been laid in for 
the year. This, too, is a part of necessary rations. Bro. 
Wagoner, the manager of the Bulsar Boarding, has done 
much for the physical welfare of the boys by providing 
for games and calisthenics. The boys are learning games 
and enjoy to play. 

Work in the district is cared for by a supervisor. His 
family has been sick and he has not been to see his 
schools recently. The teachers were in for a two weeks' 
institute at which time new methods of teaching, read- 
ing and arithmetic were taught as well as Bible. All en- 
joyed it. The Supervisors were here also for an Institute. 
We are trying to raise the standard of work in the vil- 
lage schools.— E. H. Eby. 

A Cooperative Bank for Christians is being organized 
here, the first of the kind in the mission. It will enable 
our Christians to borrow money at a reasonable rate of 
interest. When you consider that many money lenders 
of this country charge from twenty-five to three hundred 
per cent interest for money loaned, the need for these 
small banks is apparent. These banks are registered and 
have Government inspection, likewise a certain amount of 
capital is furnished. From various loan and famine relief 
funds the Mission voted a little over rupees two thousand 
to be put on interest in the Bulsar Christian Cooperative 
Bank. 

Sister Ida C. Shumaker reports (Nov. 16) as follows: 
" I have just heard the Kaliparaj children of our Wankee 
Day School (we have Sunday services there also) repeat 
the 24 Bible verses they have learned, the 23rd Psalm 
and Psalm 100, along with all the hymns, action songs, 
drills, games, etc. I am happy to report that nineteen of 
these little children repeated them perfectly, while the 
remaining 28 children who were present at the time, did 
very well, even the tiniest of the tiny — for these must come 
along with their older brothers and sisters, because all 
the rest of the family must go to work. In a few days 
this class will have regular school inspection where we 
also hope for good results. 

" This speaks well for this teacher who, when a student 
in the Vyara Boarding School was one of this same class, 
Kaliparaj, but later became a Christian. He has finished 
the regular school course at Bulsar and is now eligible to 
enter the Vocational Training School at Anklesvar when it 
opens. More about this Wankee class later." 

Sister Elizabeth Kintner- is kept busy several hours each 
day teaching the missionary children here. Two of the 
Butterbaugh children from Palghar add to her lively little 
bunch. As the Blickenstaff family are to return from 
Landour early in December that will make two more for 
the Bulsar school. Bro. Blickenstaff, our busy Secretary- 
Treasurer, returned the first of this month to be present 
for the Missionary Conference and is now busy getting the 
minutes ready to send to the Home Board. Sister Kintner 
also goes out with her Bible woman for two hours each 
evening and has charge of the Widows' Home. 

In connection with her work in the Home she reports 
the following incident: "July 19, a very poorly dressed 
non-Christian mother of perhaps sixteen years, with her 
five months' old baby and her little brother of about 
seven years, came to the Mission for help. She asked to 
come into the Widows' Home and after some consulta- 
tion of missionaries it was decided that she should be 
given a room. Her people live near here, so we did not 
expect her to stay very long. But she is here yet and 
seems very happy and contented. Her brother is going 
to school and she too does some studying. Pray for hen 

(Conned on P»$e »> 



12 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 




ELDER ROY MISHLER 

Eld. Roy Mishler was born March 1, 1891, near North 
Manchester, Ind., died Nov. 28, 1923. Death was the 
result of an accident at a 
railroad crossing in Camden, 
Ind., while on his way to his 
duties of the day. 

Jan. 1, 1916, he married 
Myrtie Swihart, of Roann. 
Ind. To this union was born 
one son. 

Bro. Mishler was of a kind, 
loving disposition, and ever 
true as a father and husband. 
He was always ready to lend 
words of encouragement in 
trying hours. 
At the age of fourteen he 
united with the Church of the Brethren to which he re- 
mained faithful. He was elected to the ministry Dec. 10, 
1911, at the Eel River church, advanced to the second 
degree July 26, 1913, and to the full ministry as elder Dec. 
5, 1919, at Kcwanna. During his ministry he composed a 
number of poems and spiritual songs, delivered 994 ser- 
mons, and had charge of twenty-five series of meetings. 
He served as pastor of the Kcwanna church for three 
years and nine months; pastor of the Wabash church, two 
years: pastor and elder of the Lower Deer Creek church 
near Camden, Ind., ten months, from which he was called 
to his eternal rest. During his short stay in this com- 
munity he had made many friends. 

He leaves his wife, one son, father, mother, four broth- 
ers and two sisters. One brother preceded him. Services 
at Camden, Ind., by Bro. G. B. Heeter, assisted by J. K. 
Eikenberry; and at Roann by the writer, assisted by Bro. 
Heeter. j. k. Eikenberry. 
Delphi, Ind. — ♦— 

DEDICATION OF THE PING TING CHOW HOSPITAL 

November 13-15 were the days set aside for the formal 
opei.ing of the Brethren Hospital at Ping Ting Chow, 
Shansi, China. Part of the buildings have been in use for 
five years, and the Administration Building for more than 
two years, but because some of the important equipment 
had not been installed until this last summer we had post- 
poned having the dedication till this fall. 

Nov. 13 we prepared a feast for ninety guests. To this 
we invited our board of directors, the eight advisors, and 
some of the influential gentry, business men and guests 
from a distance. The food was Chinese, which is both 
delicious and inexpensive. When the dinner was over our 
guests moved to the east side of the hospital yard, where a 
platform had been prepared, and where seven or eight hun- 
dred people had already assembled for the formal dedica- 
tory exercises. 

The speakers for the occasion were Mr. Li, the hospital 
evangelist, who gave the address of welcome. He was 
followed by Mr. L. C. Goodrich, of Peking. Mr. Good- 
rich represents the China Medical Board of the Rocke- 
feller Foundation, which has on two occasions assisted the 
hospital financially. After the boys from the Nurses' 
Training School had sung an anthem, Dr. F. H. Crum- 
packcr offered the dedicatory prayer. Dr. F. F. Tucker, 
of the American Board Mission at Tcchow, Shantung, was 
the next to speak. Col. Tsai, of the Shansi Tenth Brigade, 
was the last speaker. His remarks were principally a 
testimony to the great help he had received from the hos- 
pital staff last summer when he was seriously injured by 
the premature explosion of a bomb. Drs. Coffman and 
Han attended him for about three weeks, and ever since 
then Col. Tsai has been a warm friend of the hospital. 

At the close of the speech-making, we all went to the 
front yard of the hospital, where the county magistrate 
was handed a specially-prepared key with which he un- 
locked and opened the front door and the hospital was 
declared open. Then hundreds of guests entered the 
building and inspected the rooms and equipment. 

The second day was given over to men visitors. All 
day long they came in groups of from two to hundreds, 
until approximately ten thousand had gone through the 
hospital. The third day was set aside for women visitors. 
There were not as many women as there were men the 
day before. A conservative estimate would be eight 
thousand for this day. The three days' program went off 
most successfully. The occasion will be long remembered 
as one of the milestones in the history of the Brethren 
Hospital. 

The X-ray room was the one the visitors were most in- 
tent on seeing. This is not surprising, since the X-ray 
we have is the first one to be installed and operated in the 
province of Shansi. Dr. Coffman had a good opportunity 
to use his Chinese language in explaining the intricacies of 
the plant. 

Our board of advisors undertook to raise one thousand 
dollars for us, to help make up the expected shortage in 
our regular running budget for this year, as well as to 
apply toward the expenses of the opening celebrations- 
By Nov. 13 they had the full amount pledged. This board 
is made up of Col. Tsai, of the Shansi army, the county 
magistrate, and representatives of the Chamber of Com- 



merce, Educational Association, two of the largest mining 
companies and two of the local gentry. The donors to this 
fund were announced at the opening services. 

The guests came from Peking, Techow, Shantung, and 
Fcnchowfu, Taiku, Taiyuanfu, Show Yang and Liao in 
Shansi. There were ten foreign guests, from outside our 
own mission. 

As the hospital stands it is a credit to the Brethren 
Church. The Sisters' Aid Societies, the Volunteer Bands 
of our colleges, the Roanoke City church, Elder and Sister 
J. H. Garst, Dr. S. S. Conner, Mr. H. M. Miller, and Bro. ' 
Franklin Rhodes have been the large contributors who 
have helped to build a good hospital and to make it the 
best-equipped one in the province of Shansi at the present 
time. May its usefulness increase as the years go by, and 
may it always be a monument to the faith of those who 
have given so liberally towards its material growth. 

Fred J. Wampler, M. D. 

Ping Ting Chow, Shansi, China, Nov. 24. 



to $625.53. The Christian Workers* Societies nil met together Sun- 
day evening, and Sister Bruh.iker told us more about the daily 
program of our missionaries? Dr. J. S. Noffsinger, of the General 



rational ', 



>ard. 



16, 



His 



Notes From Our Correspondents 



ARKANSAS 

Austin church met in council Dec. 15, with Eld. H. J. Lilly 
presiding. Sister Alice Woodiel was. elected superintendent of the 
Sunday-school. The school is to continue and do what it can. 
Bro. Will Russell was elected secretary of the church- Bro. L. 
Burnett, of Hickory Ridge, Ark., was chosen pastor. We believe 
he will do a good work here. We arc going to help him all we 
can, and hope the church will be revived. Interest is picking 
up and we are looking for a good year. The young people are 
taking greater interest now than ever before. Bro. H. J. Lilly held 
three meetings for us Saturday and Sunday, with good attendance. 
We have preaching twice a month.— W. L. Weeks, Austin, Ark., 
Dec, 20. 

CALIFORNIA 

Butte Valley.— Nov. 25 Bro. C. Ernest Davis, of Modesto, Calif., be- 
gan a series of meetings at this place and continued for two 
weeks, preaching in all eighteen sermons. He preached the Word 
with power. Good attendance and interest prevailed throughout 
tha meeting. Thanksgiving Day we had all-day services with 
dinner served in the basement of the church. An offering of $,15 
was taken for the General Mission Board. At the close of the 
meeting another offering of $30.60 was taken for the District mission 
work. Our love feast was held Dec 8, with Bro. Davis officiating. 
Two were received into the church by baptism. Bro. Davis was 
kept very busy while among us. preaching each evening except 
one on account of rain. He preached twice each Sunday and three 
times on Thanksgiving Day, paid the church visit to all the 
members and held one council. His labors were greatly appreciated 
and it was a great encouragement to the members to work with 
renewed effort.— Mrs. Fannie V. Huffman, Mncdoel, Calif., Dec. 20. 

Empire church had a season of refreshing during the last few 
weeks. Nov. 27 a number of the members met at the church to 
receive the annual visit; the remainder were then visited in their 
homes. The members generally expressed themselves as being 
in the faith and in love and union. Our love feast was appointed 
for Dec. IS. We had an all-day meeting with a forenoon sermon 
on the theme of " Love " by Eld. Jerome E. Blough, of Johns- 
town, Pa., who with his companion is making a tour through 
the West. A noonday meal was served which was greatly enjoyed 
by all. In the afternoon we held an election for deacons, with 
Brethren Blough and J. W. Dcardorff in charge. The brethren 
chosen were Ernest A. Fry, Walter Leib and Isaac Bashor. We 
met at 7 P. M. for communion services. Bro. Blough officiated 
and in his quiet, unassuming manner presented the teachings of 
the ordinances in such a way that the occasion was very im- 
pressive and spiritual. An aged brother who was unable to 
attend the feast was anointed by Brethren Levi Winklebleck and 
J. W. Dierdorff. Sunday morning Bro. Leib and wife were in- 
stalled into the deacon's office by Bro. Blough. The other two 
will be installed later. The Empire church has four divisions of 
Christian Workers, the beginners, intermediates, young people and 
seniors. The first two have teachers while the others use the 
regular program booklets. Sunday evening Bro. Blough gave us 
another splendid discourse on the subject of " God in All." His 
presence and services were greatly appreciated. Our Sunday-school 
with Bro. Isaac Bashor as leader, and its efficient corps of officers 
and twenty-one teachers is maintaining its standard in attendance 
and finance, missionary and educational work. Our deacon board is 
fully organized, ready to meet any emergency. The church has 
a needy fund kept up by taking Sunday morning offerings which are at 
the disposal of the deacon board. The official board consists of 
fourteen ministers, eleven of whom are elders, and sixteen deacons. 
The appointments arc all kept with the utmost regularity and 
special occasions are never overlooked. As a result of the 
Thanksgiving services an offering of $162.30 was sent to the 
Emergency Fund. The monthly members' meetings dispose of 
the business of the church in such a way that the regular councils 
do not become tedious and uninteresting. With Eld. Levi Winklc- 
hleck as presiding elder, along with the faithful cooperation of the 
majority of the church, we arc looking forward to a better and 
a greater Empire church for 1924 and for future years. — John W. 
Vetter. Empire, Calif., Dec. 22. 

Fi garden church is putting forth a special effort to reach the 
people of the community. At a workers' meeting the church 
elected what we call the Church Extension Committee for the 
purpose of reaching the people of the community. This com- 
mittee divided the membership into four different groups each 
with a section of the community to work, making visits and 
inviting people to the church. We held a community Thanksgiv- 
ing' service at the church. The forenoon was given over to a 
program, consisting of speeches by our pastor and others; special 
music also was rendered. A basket dinner was enjoyed at noon 
followed by a social time. We felt the effort well worth while, as 
we had a full house and quite a few were there for the first 
time. Our friends and neighbors seemed to enjoy the day very 
much. The offering of $49.50 went to the Emergency Fund. The 
Ladies' Aid is taking orders for comfort tacking which keeps them 



busy. They ha 



been meeting each week in all-day 
Ve are beginning to look forward to our 
revival to be held in March by Bro. C. Ernest Davis.— Mrs. Clara 
Stoops, Fresno, Calif., Dec. 20. 

La Verne.— One of the chief events of Thanksgiving week, and 
in fact the most unique event which has ever transpired in La 
Verne, was the Sunset Reception. It was held in the Ladies' 
Dormitory Nov. 30, sponsored by three Sunday-school classes under 
the leadership of our pastor. Invitations were sent to all in the 
community seventy years of age and over, and to the pastors of 
the town and their wives. Eighty-eight responded. A short in- 
formal program was rendered and old friendships renewed. At 
about 5 o'clock the banquet hall was opened and a bounteous meal 
was served such as old people enjoy. Dec. 2 was our annual Thanks- 
giving offering day. In the morning Sister Edith Brubaker, who 
has recently returned from a trip through Europe and Asia, spoke 
of the dire spiritual need of both these continents, and of the ef- 
forts of our own missionaries in India, where she spent some time 
with her Bister, Mrs, L. A. Blickenstaff. Our offering amounted 



.„ and evening. 
forceful and much appreciated. He spoke ._ 
the students at chapel the following Monday. Dec. 12 we met in 
business session. L, J. Lehman was reelected church clerk; J. E. 
Throne. Sunday-school superintendent; Harper W. Frantz, general 
Christian Workers' president. Dee. 1.1 we enjoyed a very interest- 
ing and instructive stereopticon lecture given by Mr. Gale Seaman, 
a Y. M. C. A. secretary. The pictures were taking during a recent 
tour of the Orient. Our younger boys are Very much interested in 
their recently organized pioneer work for which our pastor and 
others are responsible. The boys receive points for things which 
make for physical, intellectual and spiritual development. In this 
way they get emphatic credit for Bible study, church and Sunday- 
school attendance. Our pastor is working on a similar plan for 
our adolescent girls.— Grace H. Miller, La Verne, Calif., Dec. 22. 

Long Beach- church convened in business session Dec. 21, for the 
election of officers of the chufch for the year. The Sunday- school 
gave a Christmas program on Sunday evening, Dec. 23, consisting 
of music, recitations and readings, followed by a "Treat for the 
children of the Primary and Junior Departments. The main audience 
room of the church has been redecorated and other improvements 
and repairs arc being made. There has been an increased attendance 
at the Sunday-school and church services during the past month. 
Four members have been received into the church by baptism and 
twenty-seven by letter during the past year.— Mrs. E. L. Baugh- 
man. Long Beach, Calif., Dec. 24. 

Patterson church met in council Dec. 2, with Eld. S. F. Sanger 
presiding. Sister Julia Peters was reelected church clerk; Sister 
Lona Cripe. church correspondent; J. M. Follis, "Messenger" agent. 
We have not yet elected an elder for the coming year. We are 
' glad that Bro. F. E. Miller, of Empire, who has been supplying the 
pulpit for some time past, has accepted the pastorate of the 
Patterson church for the coming year. He, with his family, 
will move here soon. One letter has been received and one received 
by baptism since our last report. Bro. C. E. Davis gave us two 
splendid sermons recently.— Mrs. Edna M. Wray, Patterson, Calif 
Dec. 16. 

Pomona church met in council Dec. 3 to elect officers for the 
year, with Eld. Funk in charge. The following were chosen: Bro. 
H. A. Frantz, elder; church clerk, R. C. Baldwin; corresponding 
secretary, Susie Newland; Sunday-school superintendent, C. R. Hol- 
singer. We are working very hard to make the strangers feel at 
home and will be glad to have any one from the East, contemplat- 
ing spending the winter in California, come and help us in the 
Lord's work.— Louise Neher Baldwin, Pomona, Calif., Dec. 15. 

COLORADO 
Grand Junction (First Church).— The members met in council 
Dec. 13, with Eld. J. D. Coffman presiding. We were very glad 
that Sister Mary Rose decided to work with" the city church. Bro. 
Coffman desired to he relieved of the oversight of the church 
here and Eld. Salem Beery, of Fruita, Colo., was elected elder 
for the coming year. The writer was retained as clerk, corre- 
spondent and "Messenger" agent. All the Sunday-school officers 
were held over for another year. Our Sunday-school is doing well, 
with good attendance and splendid interest.— D. M. Glick, Grand 
Junction, CI... Dec 22. FLOR , DA 

Baker County.— Several months have passed since our last reporl, 
during which some changes have been made. The latter part of 
August I moved my family from the Interstate Nursery to the 
town of MacClenny at which time we discontinued our" Sunday- 
school at the Nursery. Since being here in town we have co- 
operated in a measure with the churches now represented— Methodist, 
Southern Baptist, Episcopal and Christian. As -opportunity pre- 
sented, so as not to conflict with their regular established times 
of worship, we have been holding preaching services in the county 
court house. The meetings have been well attended and the 
interest manifested is very good. With the beginning of the 
new year we purpose to establish regular preaching and to organize 
a Sunday-school. -Two families of members have thus far located 
with us, making our number twelve. We expect Bro. J, W. 
Chambers and family, five more, in a few days. Next Lord's Day 
we expect Bro. I. H. Crist, of Middleburg, to conduct the service. 
As the time passes we become more and more 1 attached to the 
locality and appreciate the opportunities both spiritual and temporal — 
A. D. Bowman. MacClenny, FIa„ Dec. 24. 

Clay County church met in council Dec. 1. The report of the 
visit showed the church to be in love and union, All officers 
were elected for 1924: Elder, A. D. Bowman; Sunday-school super- 
intendent, D. E. Baxley, Jr.; "Messenger" agent and Christian 
Workers' president, Sister I. H. Crist; Sister Smith, clerk; H. B. 
Layman, correspondent. Dec. 2 Eld. J. W. Rogers, of Sehring, Fla., 
commenced a two weeks' series of meetings. The attendance and 
interest were fine up to the last three meetings, when we were 
almost rained out. Bro. Rogers preached with power. Five of 
our Sunday-school scholars were baptized, and one was reclaimed. 
Dec. 15 we had a love feast with Bro. Rogers officiating. So far 
we have not had a damaging frost. People are getting ready to 
plant potatoes.— I. H. Crist, Middleburg, Fla., Dec. 17. 

ILLINOIS 

Astoria.— Recently Eld. J. C. Shull, of Springfield, delivered a 
sermon on "The Church and War." Our quarterly business meet- 
ing was held Dec. 1, with Eld. Heckman in charge. He was re- 
elected elder for the coming year. Five letters were received and 
seven granted. Officers were elected with Bro. G. H. Stauffer, 
superintendent of South Fulton Sunday-school; Sister Lizzie Lerew, 
president of the adult Christian Workers. Bro. Heckman preached 
at the South Fulton house Dec. 2. The Sunday-schools are hoth 
increasing in attendance and offerings and lift special missionary of- 
ferings. Our Weekly prayer meeting is in charge of Eld. S. G. 
Bucher.— Hettie L. Gibble, Astoria, 111., Dec. 17. 

Coal Creek church (Canton congregation) met Dec. 5 in an all- 
day meeting with Eld. S. S. Blough presiding. Dinner was served 
at noon. Bro. Oscar Wagner and wife, of Washburn, III., came 
to us as pastor Nov. 19. The following officers were reelected: Elder, 
Bro. S. S. Blough; the writer, clerk; Sunday-school superintendent, 
H. J. Kramer. Sister Wagner was elected " Messenger " agent 
and correspondent, Bro. J. F. Burton, who closed a three weeks' 
revival on the following Sunday evening, was with us at this 
meeting, also Sister Leah Sanger, song leader, of Astoria. Our 
love feast, Dec. 8, was well attended, with Bro. Burton officiating. 
As a result of the meetings thirty were added to the church. Twenty- 
four have been baptized, two await the rite and four were re- 
stored. There were two separate prayer meetings which preceded 
the sermon by the evangelist, one for young people in charge of 
their class teacher, and the adults with the evangelist in charge. 
The membership has been strengthened and inspired, and we be- 
lieve other impressions for good have been made. Our Sunday- 
school has been taking an offering every third Sunday of the 
month for the Emergency Fund. A special effort is being made 
to send a Christmas offering of one dollar per member. Our Christ- 
mas program will be given Sunday evening, Dec. 23. — Mrs. J. 
Rohrc 



vith Bro. Chas. Delp pre- 
officers with Bro. S. J. 



Canton, 111., Dec. 17. 

Shannon church met in council Dec. 8, - 
siding. We elected our Sunday-school 

Lehman, superintendent. Bro. Delp is our elder for another year. 
We decided to discontinue our Sunday evening services for a while, 
commencing Jan. 1. On Thanksgiving we had a union meeting at 
our church, which was well attended. Bro. Clyde Forney, of Lanark, 
delivered the address, which was enjoyed by all. We took up an 
offering for Japanese relief. On the following Sunday we tnok our 
regular Thanksgiving offering.-Mrs. E. Weigle, Shannon, III., Dec. 16. 

Springfield.— At our recent business meeting, Brother W. T. Heck- 
man was chosen as our elder for another year. Other officers for 
the coming year were elected. Four have been baptized since our 
last report. This makes a total of forty- seven baptisms in the 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



13 



last two years. Sunday evening, Dec. 23, the Sunday-school will 
give a Christmas program, at the close of which an offering will 
be received for the work of the General Mission Board. Dec. 28 
the ministers and their wives of the Southern District of Illinois 
will meet at the Springfield church in an all-day conference. Feb. 
10 to March 1 a union revival campaign is to be conducted in our 
city by the renowned evangelist, Gypsy Smith. The Sunday even- • 
ing services during this time will be withdrawn.— Mrs. J. C. Shull, 
Springfield, 111., Dec, 22. 

Virden.— On the evening of Dec. 18 a large number of the members 
gathered in the basement of the church to surprise the pastor, 
Bro. H. B. Martin, and his family. They were in the country 
when they were called by phone that they were wanted at the 
church. Upon their arrival they found the street lined with 
automobiles. After some splendid addresses of appreciation by a 
number of the members, Brother and Sister Martin were presented 
with numerous gifts, including meat, fruit, vegetables, etc. Bro. 
Martin then told how he and Sister Martin had enjoyed their work 
in the Virden church. They not only appreciated the gifts but 
also the spirit in which they were given. Bro. Martin has baptized 
eighty-nine persons in the two and one-half years he has been 
pastor of the Virden church and two have been reclaimed. He 
also stated that there is a wonderful opportunity for the church 
here in the city of Virden, with its large foreign population. He 
said the credit for the growth of the church did not belong to 
the pastor and his wife. Where there is cooperation and willingness 
to do the thing God wants done, success will come to any church. 
After a few hymns and a prayer, the members went away wishing 
the pastor and his family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New 
Year.— Dorothy Brubaker, Virden, 111., Dec. 19. 

Waddams Grove. — On Thanksgiving morning the people gathered at 
the church to offer up thanks for the many blessings enjoyed each 
day. Bro. W. U. Wagner delivered a sermon reminding us of 
the fact that in spite of all our trials there are many blessings. 
Dec. 15 we had our regular council with Eld. John Hcckman in 
charge. The officers for next year were elected. Dec. 16 Eld. Heck- 
man preached a very interesting and inspiring sermon. — Mildred 
Starr, Lena, 111., Dec. 22. 

INDIANA 

Anderson.— We have recently passed through some very pleasant 
meetings, which showed the membership to be a very healthy and 
active body of workers. The* church met the fourth Sunday in 
November and elected Sunday-sghool officers, with Chester Cox, as 
superintendent. Dec. 16 we closed a very spiritual and uplifting 
series of two weeks' meetings, conducted by Bro. B. F. Petry, of 
Eaton, Ohio. Four were received into the ohurch, three were 
baptizeH,. and one was received by former baptism. The Sunday- 
school gave a most beautiful Christmas program on Sunday night, 
Dec. 23. Our special collections for the General Mission Board from 
the Sunday-school on each third Sunday of the month are very 
complimentary, speaking forth from the hearts and souls of the 
contributors. The new year really looks very encouraging. — Levi 
Wise, Anderson, Ind., Dec. 24. 

Auburn. — Our revival, conducted by the pastor, Bro. S, J. Burger, 
closed Sunday, Nov. 25. Bro. ^Burger's inspiring messages brought 
us many new ideas and thoughts. There was one addition to 
the church several weeks before the meeting. Brethren C. C. Cripe, 
Russell Sherman and B.o. Weaver, of Cedar Creek congrega- 
tion, each delivered a sermon the first week. — Florence Hanson, 
Auburn, Ind., Dec. 18. 

Buck Creek congregation enjoyed a series of meetings, conducted 
by A. P. Musselman, Dec, 2 to 16. He gave us fifteen Spirit-filled 
messages. Nine were baptized and one awaits the rite. The 
church met in council Dec. 8, with Eld. L. L. Teeter presiding. 
The church and Sunday-school officers were chosen: A. J. Replogle, 
on Ministerial Board; Clem Bowman, clerk; " Messenger " agent 
and correspondent, the writer; E. N. Cross, superintendent of the 
Sunday-school.— Phcbe E. Teeter, Moorcland, Ind.', Dec. 17. 

Delphi. — Our new work and field as a mission point at Delphi is 
progressing nicely in spirit and in attendance. Our offering today 
for the Emergency Fund was something over $14, from the Sunday- 
school. Dec. 11 we reorganized for the coming year with Bro. E. E. 
BlickenstafF superintendent. Other committees— missionary, temper- 
ance and Christian Workers— were appointed. A splendid spirit was 
manifested throughout the meeting. — J. K. Eikcnherry, Delphi, Ind,, 
Dec. 24. 

Kokomo.— Dec. 17 our church met in business session with Eld. 
Barnhart as moderator. The attendance was good. One letter 
was received and one granted. All officers for the church and 
Sunday-school for the coming year were chosen. Next Sunday morn- 
ing we will have an installation service for the new Sunday-school 
officers and teachers. Last Sunday morning we had with us Bro. 
D. W. Hostetler and wife, of the Plevna church. He gave us a 
fine sermon. In the evening our Sunday-3chool rendered a splendid 
Christmas program to a full house.— Amanda Miller, Kokomo, Ind., 
Dec. 26. 

Middlebury church met in council Dec. 14, with Bro. T. E. George 
in charge. The following officers were elected: Clerk, Paul Schrock; 
trustees, Geo. Arnold, three years; Amos Cripe, two years; John 
Carper, one year; Paul Schrock, president of Christian Workers'' 
Meeting; Frank JNusbaum. "Messenger" agent; Mrs. Amanda Cripe, 
correspondent. A ministerial committee also was appointed. Cyrus 
Steele was chosen to act with Rock Run church in deciding a 
church line. Two letters were granted and ten received. During 
the latter part of October, Bro. Edw. Stump, of Yellow Creek con- 
gregation, held a series of meetings here at which time one 
member joined from the Progressives. Dec. 11 two more were 
baptized. Nov. 18 the Bethany Mission Band gave us ■ one of the 
most consecrated mission services we ever enjoyed. Nov. 25 the 
Goshen City young people gave us a fine program, presenting 
the playlet, " Thanksgiving Ann." Our Thanksgiving offering was 
$129. Dec 1 our young people presented a splendid temperance 
program. A Bible Study Class is being conducted this winter. 
Dec. 23 we will render a Christmas cantata.^Mrs. A. M. Hassan, 
Middlebury, Ind., Dec. 16. 

Monticello (Guernsey House).— A called council was held at this 
place with Bro. Chas, Oberlin presiding, for the purpose of elect- 
ing Sunday-school officers. James Ballard was chosen super- 
intendent; Elizabeth Seward, " Messenger " agent; Estelle Ruemler, 
correspondent.— Laura Sickler, Reynolds, Ind., Dec, 10. 

-New Paris church met in council Dec. 7, with Eld. Chas. Arnold 
presiding. Nine letters were read and accepted. We decided to 
have a revival meeting next March. Chas. Kiefer was reelected 
Christian Workers' president. We will have a Vacation Bible School 
next summer.— Velma R. Miller, New Paris, Ind., Dec. 24. 

North Winona.— Bro. Hugh Miller, of North Manchester, spent two 
weeks in November conducting a revival meeting, at#the close of 
which a love feast was held. Bro. Miller preached some very in- 
spiring sermons. Nov. 25 our pastor, Bro. L. U. Kreider, preached 
a special Thanksgiving sermon. A week ago a church council was 
held when officers for the coming year were elected, among them, 
Sunday-school superintendent, Ed Piper; Bro. Geo. Snell, elder. Our 
young people have organized a chorus, which has been doing special 
work both at home and. in neighboring churches. They and the 
children will give a Christmas program on the evening of Dec. 23. 
During the coming year the church will put on a lecture course, the 
first number to be given in January by H. K. Ober, of Pennsylvania.— 
Mrs. Glen Whitehead, North Webster, Ind.. Dec. 16. 

Oak Grove church met in council Dec. 8, with Eld. M. I. Whitmer 
presiding. Two letters were granted. Officers were elected as fol- 
lows: "Messenger" agent, Wm. Arnold; M. I. Whitmer, elder;. 
Sunday-school superintendent, Harmon Summers; clerk, the writer. 
Our Sunday-school has an enrollment of sixty-six and in four months 
has raised $109 for the Emergency Fund. A Christmas offering is 
to be taken for the Mission Board.— Harry Miller, North Liberty, 
Ind., Dec. 17. 

Pleaaant View chnrcfa met in council Dec. 13, with Eld. J. A. 
Snell presiding. Church and Sunday-school officers were elected 
for the coming year, with Bro. Edw. Kendall, superintendent of the 



adult division of the Sunday-school. Dec. 2 Bro. Grover Wine, 
lived in our congregation, and now is in school at Manchester Col- 
lege, gave us two inspiring sermons. Dec. 16, instead of the 
regular Christian Workers' and preaching service, we enjoyed a 
Bible study conducted by Eld. Snell. A short Christmas program 
is being arranged (or Dec. 23.— Bertha Snell. South Whitlcv, Ind., 
Dec. 20. 

Solomons Creek congregation met in council Dec. 13, with Bro. 
Hiram Forney presiding. Sunday-school officers were -elected with 
Ed Holtzinger superintendent.— Murrill Neff, Syracuse, Ind., Dec. 24. 

Wakarusa church met in council Nov. 21, with Eld. C. McUlcr 
in charge. Officers were elected for the coming year: Bro. C. 
Metzlcr, elder; Bro. Oscar Metzlcr, Sunday-school superintendent; 
Bro. Chas. Metzlcr, Christian Workers' president; Bro. John Searer, 
church clerk. We held a service on Thanksgiving Day, at which 
lime an offering of $53.75 was taken for the Emergency Fund. Dec. 
2 Bro. David Metzlcr delivered two splendid messages, one in the 
morning on " Church Loyalty," and one in the evening on " In- 
dividual Responsibility." Dec. 13 Bro. J. Edwin Jarboe was with 
us and told some of his experiences in his late revival meetings 
in Southern Indiana. These were very interesting and showed 
powerful manifestations of the work of the Holy Spirit. His visits 
are always greatly enjoyed. A Christmas program was given by 
the Sunday-school last Sunday morning. An offering of $31 was 
taken for the General Mission Board.— Bertha Metzlcr, Wakarusa, 
Ind., Dec, 26. 

West Eel River congregation met in council Dec, 8, with Elders 
T. D. Butterbaugh and Geo. Bridge present, the latter presiding. 
Two letters were granted. The following officers were elected: 
Elder, Bro. Geo. Mishler; clerk, Bro. Roy Kline; correspondent, Fannie 
Bridge; Sunday-school superintendent, Marie Metzgcr. Dec. 16 n 
special missionary offering of $26.80 was taken.— Ruth Metzgcr, Clay- 
pool, Ind., Dec. 17. 

West Marlon.— Wc met in council Dec. 8, with our pastor. Bro. J. W. 
Norris; presiding. Wc arc planning a Christmas program for Dec. 
■25. A scries of meetings is to begin Dec. 23 with our pastor in 
charge. Sunday-school and church officers were elected with Sister 
Mabel Norris, superintendent; the writ&r, " Messenger " corre- 
spondent.— Harel Witter, Marion, Ind., Dec. 17. 

IOWA 

Beaver church met in members' meeting Dec. 22, with Eld..C. B. 
Rowc presiding. He also preached for us Sunday morning, Dec. 23. 
The work here is progressing nicely. Our pastor, Bro, O. W. Diehl, 
went to California to spend part of the winter. Our appointments 
have been filled by our neighboring churches, Dallas, Panora and 
Fcmald. We have a very interesting Bible Study Class every 
Sunday evening, with Bro, Ernest Grove as teacher. The Sunday- 
school gave a splendid Christmas program Sunday evening, Dec. 
23, to a full house.— S. K. Powers, Ogden, Iowa. Dec. 26. 

Coon River. — A young man has been received by baptism since our 
last report, Dec, 3 a Thanksgiving program was given, by the 
pupils of our Sunday-school and Yale. The large crowd that came 
to hear them was well pleased with the result of their efforts. 
Dec. 9 we elected officers (or the Sunday-school, with Bro. Frank 
Armagost superintendent. Dec. IS we met in- council with Bro. M. 
W. Eikenberry as moderator. One letter was granted. Sister Vinna 
Persons was chosen church correspondent. Appointments were made 
on the various committees. Dec. 16 Bro. I. W. Brubaker gave 
us a splendid Spirit-filled sermon from the golden text of that day. 
In the evening we elected officers for the Christian Workers with 
Sister Naomi Trostlc president. Bro. Wm. Cordicr gave us the 
message of the evening.— Mrs. Zona B. Ott, Panora, Iowa, Dee. 17. 

Franklin County.— Our regular council was held Dec. 1, with Eld. 
Ivan Erbaugh in charge. Our pastor, Bro. Erbaugh, gave an 
encouraging report of his work for the first three months of the 
year. During this time he held a series of meetings and made 
eighty calls. Two were received into fellowship by baptism and 
the church was strengthened. The following church officers were 
elected: Clerk, Ira Schwab; correspondent, Blanche Pyle; " Mes- 
senger " agent, Sister Wm. Mason; trustee, Wm. Mason. Wc will 
have a Christmas program on Sunday morning, Dec. 23. The Sun- 
day-school has adopted the envelope plan to raise money for 
the General Mission Board. An offering of $20 was taken for 
foreign missions at our Thanksgiving service. The interest and 
attendance in the Sunday-school and church have been very good. 
A Mission Study Class of twenty members has just been started.— 
Blanche Pyle, Hampton, Iowa, Dec. 18. 

Garrison. — The Ladies' Aid bazaar was held Dec. 8, the receipts 
from which amounted to about $139. A program is being pre- 
pared for Christmas eve. The church enjoyed a very pleasant 
visit from Bro. Samuel Fike, of Waterloo, several weeks ago. At 
the second quarterly council of thj* church, held last Sunday, it 
was planned to hold a series of meetings in the spring, beginning 
the first Sunday after the yearly conference. Bro. Samuel Blough 
was taken into full membership in the church Sunday.— Mrs. S. 
S. Coleman, Garrison, Iowa, Dec. 19. 

Libertyville church met in council Dec. 22. Plans were discussed 
for caring for the District Meeting to be held at our church in 
August, 1924. Sunday-school officers were elected and other busi- 
ness attended to. The brethren and neighbors of Sister Susie 
Manning met one day and husked her corn. The women took weU 
filled baskets along and served dinner to the men. Several of the' 
brethren also helped Bro. John Price husk corn one day.— Maude 
Bartholow, Libertyville, Iowa, Dec. 23. 

KANSAS 

Buckeye church met in council Dec. 8, with Eld. C. A. Shank pre- 
siding. Officers for the coming year were elected: Bro. C. A. Shank, 
elder; Sister Myrtle Derrick, clerk; Sister Emma Correll, Sunday- 
school superintendent; the writer, "Messenger" agent and corre- 
spondent.— Blanche Brillhart, Abilene, Kans., Dec. 17- 

Independence church met in council Dec. 16, with Eld. W. H. Miller 
presiding. He resigned as elder in charge and Eld. A. C. Daggett 
was elected in his stead, with Eld. J. S. Clark, of Parsons, Kans.. 
assistant. Bro. Chas. Cline resigned as a minister. He was elected 
Sunday-school superintendent. Bro. Nat Belts was elected presi- 
dent ol the Senior Christian Workers' Meeting; Bro. Harry Clark, 
trustee; Sister Lizzie Corn, Jfcblishing House agent; the writer, 
correspondent; Sister Clara Chne, church clerk. Several changes 
have been made and we hope to become a strong body of workers.— 
Pella Carson, Independence. Kans;. Dec. 19. 

Lamed church met in council Dec. 10, with Eld. Wm. Kinrie pre- 
siding. Church, Sunday-school and Christian Workers' officers were 
elected: Bro. J. J. Yoder. elder; Bro. Henry Fox, Sunday-school 
superintendent; In a Henry, president of the Christian Workers' 
Band. We have a Board of Religious Education consisting of five 
members which appoints most of the assistant officers and teachers 
and looks alter the general educational interests of the church. 
Through their efforts a Teacher- training Class has lately been 
organized with Bro. Breon as teacher.— Molhc Bock, Lamed, Kans., 
Dec. 20. 

MICHIGAN 

Detroit.— The, church and friends spent a very enjoyable time 
on Thanksgiving Day. Special music and a sermon by Bro. A. O. 
Mote were the features of the morning. A bountiful dinner was 
served at noon and in the afternoon e program was given. A thank 
offering was lifted, amounting to $207.76; $100 of this was given 
to the General Mission Board; $100 to the District Mission Board 
and the remainder to the City Rescue Mission. The young men's 
class gave $75 of this amount. Our council meeting was held 
Dec. 7. Church officers were elected for the following year. Two 
members were received by letter and one by baptism since our 
last report. Five letters have been granted. Our school is steadily 
growing.— Mrs. Walter Cordon, Detroit, Mich.. Dec. 17. 

Rodney church met in members' meeting Dec. 8, with Eld, Samuel 
Bollinger presiding. We elected church and Sunday-school officers 
(or the coming year: Elder. Bro. Samuel Bollinger; clerk, Thoa. 
Brooker; "Messenger" agent and correspondent, the writer; Sunday- 



school superintendent, Bro. Geo. Jehnzen. Our Sunday-school is 
moving along in good shape. Our preaching is being done by Eld. 
Bollinger who has been coining every two weeks to preach for us. 
Eld. J. E. Frederick also helps out with the preaching! Although 
nearly eighty years old and blind he does well under the circum- 
stancci, Wc hope wc can get a minister to locate with us soon.— 
W. E, Tombaugh, Rodney, Mich., Dec. 16. 

MISSOURI 

Honey Creek church held a business meeting Dec. 4, with our 
pastor, Eld. L. A. Walker, presiding. He was also reelected 
elder for the coming year; clerk, Sister Eliza Dukes; trustee. Len 
Logan; superintendent, Miles Spargnr; Christian Workers' president, 
Emnior Brogan; "Messenger" agent and correspondent, the writer. 
It was decided to hold a meeting on Thursday night of each week 
to study the book, " Studies in Doctrine and Devotiou."— Myrtle L. 
Clan, Sheridan. Mo.. Dec. 22. 

Mountain Grove.-Bro. J. H. Morris, of Carihagc, Mo., began a 
series of nicctinKS at the Mountain Grove church Nov, 22 and con« 
tinucd until Dec. 17, Good attention and attendance prevailed 
throughout the meeting with the exception of a few nights when 
the weather was inclement. Bro. Morris delivered such good mes- 
sages in his clear, earnest and forceful manner that people were 
cnger to hear him. Several of our members used their cars to 
convey people to and from church. As a result of the earnest ef- 
fort put forth by the minister and members two were reclaimed 
and eighteen were baptized. Bro. Sala, of Cushing, Okla., preached 
two good sermons for us during our revival.— Mrs. J. H. Neher, 
Mountain Grove, Mo., Dec. 24. 

NORTH CAROLINA 

Mt. Carmel.— Bro. Geo. A. Branscom, of Melvin Hill, N. C, and 
Bro. Thomas, of Virginia, came to our place Dec. 5 and held a 
business meeting. We elected a local Ministerial Board and elected 
two young brethren to the ministry. On the following night Bro. 
Branscom preached an excellent sermon at the home of the writer. 
On Sunday Eld. W. H. Handy began a scries of meetings which 
continued eight days, closing with a council meeting. One was 
restored and our church feels greatly strengthened. Bro. Handy 
was elected elder for the coming year; Sister Mollie Atwood, cor- 
respondent.— Mrs. L. A. Jones, Furches, N. C, Dec. 21. 

NORTH DAKOTA 

Ellison.— Due. 15 wc met in council with Eld, Lewis Hyde pre- 
siding. He was reelected elder in charge for another year. Sunday- 
school officers were chosen for the new year. Bro. Dallas Burk- 
holder was reelected superintendent with Bro. Harvey Burkholder 
assistant. Our Thanksgiving offering of $38.25 was sent to the 
General Mission Board.-Mrs. Lewis Hyde, Rock Lake. N. Dak., 
Dec. 17. 

Pleasant Valley.— Dec. 9 we were favored with a good talk by 
C. C. Myers, on observations by the way. Bro. Myers was driv- 
ing through to Minot, to take the pastorate of that church. We 
arc glad to have ministering brethren passing through stop off. 
Those desiring to locate in a goodly land, with good opportunities 
to secure homes at reasonable prices, will da well to sec this 
country.-Hazcl Blocher, York, N. Dak.. Dec. 16. 

Turtle Mountain.— On Dec. 2 our pastor, Eld, Earl I.. Flora, began 
a series of meetings in the Little Prairie schoolhouse in the west 
end of our congregation, continuing for one week. In this part 
of our territory the practices of the Church of the Brethren are 
little known. Wc rejoice, however, that one soul was made willing 
to put on Christ in baptism, Three others confessed Christ, but 
await further study*" of doctrines belorc baptism. Our field is 
large and laborers arc few. During these meetings Bro. Flora made 
the twelve mile round trip each evening on horseback. We can- 
not reach those who need the Gospel. Wc arc praying for some 
one to come and help us. It is not an easy field, nor one in which 
wc may expect rapid returns for the labor, but the field needs 
workers and the results arc sure though slow.— Mrs. Laura L. Flora, 
Carpenter, N. Dak., Dec. 21. 

OHIO 

Black River church met in council Nov. 3 with Eld. S. M. Friend 
presiding. Church and Sunday-school officers were elected: Elder, 
S. M. Friend; clerk, D, B. Carver; trustee, C. B. Dague; "Mes- 
senger" agent and correspondent, the writer; superintendent, Lem- 
mon Findley, We arc anil have hcen lor years giving one Sun- 
day-school collection each month for missions. Satisfactory reports 
were given by the different treasurers. We had a meeting at 
the church Thanksgiving Day, Bro. S. M. Friend gave us a 
good sermon. We also had a fine talk by Sister Corda Wertz and 
an interesting reading by Sister Clara Wertz. We took a collection, 
receiving $40 for home missions and (60 lor foreign. Bro. D. E. Sower 
and family, of Middleton, Mich., arrived last week. He will be 
pastor of the Black River church for the coming year.— Clara 
Woods, Spencer, Ohio, Dec. 16. 

Black Swamp.— Bro. A. M. Bashor. of Lawrcnccburg, Tcnn., came 
to us Dec. 3 to hold a series of meetings. On account of the 
inclement weather and sickness in the neighborhood, the audiences 
were not very large at any time. Bro, Bashor preached eighteen 
inspiring sermons. Seven of our Sunday-school scholars, all of 
one class, were baptized. We held our council Dec. IS, with Eld. 
J. L. Guthrie presiding. Bro. Bashor was also present. Wc elected 
Sunday-school officers with Sister Ida Garner superintendent. Two 
letters were received.— Mrs. Asenath Baker, Lemoyne, Ohio, Dec. JO. 

Brookvillo.— Nov. 11 Bro. D. R, McFadden, of Smithvtltc. Ohio, 
came to us in a revival effort, and continued until Nov. 26. The 
Word was proclaimed with power under the direction of the Holy 
Spirit. The membership was much built up; thirty-five were 
haptized and one was reclaimed. The church has been enjoying a 
splendid growth for several years, both spiritually and numerically.— 
J. W. Fidler. Brookvillc. Ohio, Dec. 22. 

Cassel Run.-Bro. H. M. Coppock, of Middle District, held a suc- 
cessful meeting for us with seven baptisms and a general strength- 
ening of the members. Eld, Van B. Wright, of Peebles. Ohio, and 
Brother and Sister Carr, of Newtonsville, assisted in these services. 
Sister Carr's short talks and singing were appreciated very much.— 
Homer C. Haines, Cassel Run, Ohio, Dec. 18. 

County Line.— Our love feast was held Nov. i. Bro. A. M. Bashore, 
of Lawrenceburg, Tenn,, began a scries of meetings Nov. 4 and con- 
tinued two weeks. Five were baptized. Bro. D. G. Armentrout, 
of Lima, led the song service. He is an able song leader. Nov. 
18 the afternoon was spent in singing, which was e"Joy« d bv »" 
present. Our quarterly council was held Dec. 22, with Eld J. L. 
Guthrie presiding. Sunday-school officers were elected for the year 
with Bro. Morris Guthrie, superintendent. Dec. 23 the young 
people's class gave a Christmas program.— Bessie L. Guthrie, La- 
fayette, Ohio. Dec. 24. 

GreenvUJe church met in council Dec. 14. The greater part of the 
business was to elect our officers for the coming year. Bro. Sharp 
was reelected to serve as elder and pastor. Bro. J. W. Weimer was 
chosen as superintendent of the Sunday-school, with Bro. Loren 
Miller, assistant; Bro. John Cassel, as trustee. Other mmor of- 
ficers were also elected. Eight letters were granted; four had 
previously been received. Our Thanksgiving offering was nearly 
$52. The greater part was sent to the Emergency Fund Bro. 
John Robinson was with us the 18th and gave a lecture on Prob- 
lems of the Home." A large crowd greeted him and we feel much 
good will be accomplished through these lectures.— Mrs. Anna 
Witwer. Greenville, Ohio, Dec. 19. 

Pleasant Valley (Ohio) church met in council Dec. 8 with Bro. 
David Munich presiding. Two letters were granted The officers 
for the following year were elected: Bro. David Minn.ch elder. 
Bro. Bert McKibben, Sunday-school superintendent; the v,r.«-r. cor- 
respondent; N. B. Mowery. " Messenger " agent. Our series oi 
' lRS began Dec. 10 and closed Dec. 23. They 

as manifested. Three 1 
R. N. Leatherman was the evangelist.-Grace Kb 



meetings began Dec. 10 anU ciosen ivec. a. l^i — —■ — 
tended and much interest was manifested. Three were baptued- 
Bro. R. N. Leathc""*" «">* the evancrelist.-Gracc Rhoades, I mon 
City, Ind., Dec. 26. 



(Continued on Page 16) 



14 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



BULSAR NOTES 

(Continued from Page 11) 

that she may be led step by step into the full knowledge 
of our Christ and may accept him as her Savior." 

Drs. Cottrell report that all the rooms in the hospital 
quarters are occupied with one exception. The health 
in the Christian community for the past month has been 
better than usual. A few weeks ago little Marcia Hollen- 
berg was brought here by her mother, having symptoms 
of pneumonia. She responded quickly to treatment and 
is now well. During the past few months little ones of our 
Indian Christian families have been brought here for 
treatment and in several instances cases proved fatal. We 
are glad our doctors are here, for otherwise these sad oc- 
casions would be more frequent. 

Sister A. G. Butterbaugh and children were here for 
a few weeks prior to the meetings for rest. Bro. Butter- 
baugh could be with them only part of the time as work 
at Palghar claimed much of his time. After the Mission 
Conference they returned to Palghar. 

Accompanied by our Indian Temperance man, Trikamlal 
B. Jerome, I was at Godhra on the 28th and 29th of 
October. This is a Methodist center. Their Normal Train- 
ing School for girls is located here, there being a number 
of our girls from the Anklesvar school in Godhra at present. 
The M. E. Mission has a big work in the villages about 
Godhra and 13,000 Christians are reported. A large force 
of village workers is employed. Rev. R. D. Bisbee is 
in charge but expects to proceed on furlough next year. 
The yearly District Conference was in session, an occasion 
that corresponds very much to our District Meetings. A 
temperance rally was held on Saturday P. M. Sunday 
morning the church was full and it was my privilege to 
bring a message to over five hundred people concerning 
Jesus and Love. " By this shall all men know that ye 
are my disciples if ye have love one for another." The 
sign or badge which reveals to the world that we are 
the disciples of Christ is not one of learning, not one 
of wealth, not one of clothes. It is the banner of love. 
Love is the heart of God, it was the supreme motive of 
Jesus Christ in all he did on earth, it is the very essence 
of Christian life and conduct. It is love that puts an edge 
on our lives. How the world needs, how we need a tidal 
wave of God's love! Sunday P. M. three temperance meet- 
ings were held in the bazaar of Godhra; the masters were 
divided into three groups. We visited each group at which 
Trikamlal made short addresses. In the evening about six 
hundred people were present at the magic lantern lecture 
held near the Girls' School. 

The Mission Conference, which closed on Wednesday, 
will be reported later. It is considered to have been one 
of our best Conferences, the new missionary party having 
arrived in time for most of the business session. 

Bulsar, India, Nov. 16. A. T. Hoffert. 



PERU, INDIANA 

We came here from Rocky Ford, Colo., three years ago 
and entered upon the work under contract with the District 
Mission Board of Middle Indiana. After two years of 
hard, self-sacrificing labor we became self-supporting and 
have made very commendable progress both in finances and 
membership. The present year has trebled any similar 
period of our church history in financial obligations, because 
of street improvements and the erection of a commodious, 
modern parsonage of the bungalow- cottage style on our 
church lawn, south of the church. 

We have also greatly improved our basement for Sunday- 
school purposes. We have an instantaneous gas heater for 
the baptistry and a good supply of electricity and gas for il- 
lumination. Special committees are rehearsing for a Christ- 
mas pageant, "White Gifts for the King." "The Shepherds' 
Vision " will be given Dec. 23. 

Our series of meetings conducted by home talent was very 
successful, although there were not as many conversions 
as at other times. Five were received by baptism and many 
reconsecrations were reported. Two young mothers were 
received into fellowship the week preceding the special ef- 
fort, and three earlier in the season— none of which were 
reported. We have also received ten by letter since our last 
report. We expect Brother and Sister Jarboe to assist us 
in a revival some time before Annual Conference. Sister 
L. W. Shultz, of North Manchester, will give a reading at 
our church early in January. 

We have five departments in our Sunday-school and 
three in our Christian Workers' Society, all doing fine 
work. With the election of new officers we are planning 
for greater work along all lines of Christian service 
than ever before. We have found the people here con- 
genial to work with, and there is peace and harmony 
seldom witnessed among members in industrial centers, 
and best of all, the people are of high moral and intellectual 
standing in the community. 

There is room and a warm welcome for many more, 
and from a financial standpoint, folks of the right sort 
can do as well here as anywhere I know of. We are near 
enough to Manchester College to keep oar young people 
headed that way as well as to draw at will from the large 



force of instructors for spiritual food and programs con- 
ducted by the student body. Then it is only a two-hour 
drive to Winona Lake, where a great intellectual and 
spiritual program is continuous through the summer months. 

We can not close without paying a tribute to the gen- . 
eral management of our Publishing House. The thing 
that most strongly impresses my mind, right now, is the 
editorial department. In conversation with Eld. H. C. 
Early quite recently, it was a source of much pleasure to 
Feview, at length, the general makeup of our church litera- 
ture and mark the progress we have made in the last 
decade or so in the literary character of our periodicals 
if viewed from no other angle. This we feel is due to 
the mature judgment of our editor, first, and second, to 
its splendid staff of contributors. 

A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all. 

A. G. Crosswhite. 



WEST BRANCH, ILL.— We held 16 meetings with an average at- 
tendance of 17. Our work consisted of quilting, making comforters 
and garments. Receipts from ice cream social, $43.90; provision sale 
and bazaar, $49. We sent $23 for missionary work; $25 to Council 
Bluffs Orphanage; $5.50 for flowers; $15 for piano; $5 to Old Folks' 
Home; $17.50 for the Stover Books. We sent dinner to two sick 
people; donated a comforter to a needy family; on hand, $78.92. 
Officers: Julia Brantner, President; Viola Walb, Vice-President; 
Grace Meinzer, Superintendent; Orpha Butterbaugh, Assistant; Bess 
Mades, Secretary -Treasurer.— Mamie Brantner, Polo, 111., Dec. 14. 



OLD PEOPLE'S HOME, MOUNT MORRIS, ILL. 

To the Sisters' Aid Society of Northern Illinois and Wis- 
consin : 

About two months ago I sent out letters to all of the 
Aid Societies, asking for five dollars from each Society, 
thinking that we might be able to get the rugs before 
Christmas. But as the returns are coming in so slow it 
will be impossible to get the rugs that are necessary for 
the sitting room. 

The Aid Societies that reported up to this time: 

Dixon, $5.00 

Lanark 5.00 

Milledgeville, 5.00 

Franklin Grove 5.00 

Chippewa Valley, 5.00 

Elgin 5.00 

West Branch 5.00 

Pine Creek, 5.00 

Maple Grove, 5.00 

Mt. Morris, 5.00 

Cherry Grove, 5.00 

Individuals that gave: 

Catherine Campbell, 5.00 

Daniel Shoop, 5.00 

Leslie Johnson, '. 5.00 

Mrs. Leslie Johnson 5.00 

Girls' Sunday School Class, Dixon, 225 

Mahlon Lichty, 1.00 

Rueben Farringer, 1.00 

Clinton Rarick, 25 

Mary Forrester, 25 

Sallie Myers, 1.00 

Anna Barr, , 25 

Sarah Withers, 25 

Marion Johnson, , 25 

Leslie Johnson and Wife, Supts. 



MATRIMONIAL 



Please note that the fifty cents required for the publication of a 
marriage notice may be applied to a three months' " Gospel Mes- 
senger ' subscription for the newly-married couple. Request should 
be made when the notice is sent, and full address given. 

Erb-Van Clove.— By the undersigned, Dec. 19, 1P23, at the parsonage 
of the First church, Des Moines, Brother Elmer J. Erb and Sister 
Stella M. Van Cieve, both of Yale, Iowa.— D. F. Landis, Des Moines, 
Iowa. 

Hollis-SelL— By the undersigned, at the North St. Joseph Church 
of the Brethren, Dec. 2. 1923, Brother Oscar E. Hollis and Sister 
Vada May Sell.— J. S. Kline, St. Joseph, Mo. 



SISTERS' AID SOCIETIES 



BRETHREN, MICH.— We held 14 regular and one special meeting; 
average attendance, 8. Officers : President, Sister Alta Hillsamer; 
Vice-President, Sister Burkholder; Secretary-Treasurer, the writer. 
Our work consisted of making comforts, sewing carpet rags, quilt- 
ing, serving one sale dinner, two chicken suppers. Receipts, $161.10; 
paid out, S4S.57; balance, $115.53.— Mrs. D. E. Crouch, Kaleva, Mich., 
Dec. 17. * 

LAPORTE, IND.— We held 13 all-day meetings with an average 
attendance of 20. We received $61.70; expenses, $30, for flowers for 
the sick, donations to church treasurer, Greene County Industrial 
School, State District, etc. We made prayer-coverings, comforters, 
garments, sewed carpet rags and served dinner. Officers: Presi- 
dent, Sister Alma Replogle; Vice -Resident, Sister Susio Stitesr the 
writer, Secretary -Treasurer. — Mary B. Cross, LaPorte, Ind., Dec. 11. 

PIPE CREEK, MD.— During the year we held 12 meetings with an 
average attendance of 11; membership, 25. Our work consisted of 
piecing and quilting, making children's clothing, bonnets, etc. We 
gave $50 to Greene County School; $5 to Edgar M. Hoffer; $8 to 
world-wide missions. We sold articles, $48.10; donated clothing to 
the Baltimore Mission. Our collections for the year amounted to 
$22.78; donations received, $17.60. Officers: Sister Ida Englar, Presi- 
dent; Sister Annie Senseney, Vice-President; Sister Lillian Englar, 
Secretary -Treasurer.— Margaret P. Englar, Uniontown, Md., Dec. 17. 

RICHLAND, PA.— We held 49 meetings and 6 special meetings. 
We quilted 23 quilts and pieced 9; knotted 4 comforts and made 40 
aprons. We gave clothing and cash to Russian Relief, $17.60; 
to the needy, $18.43; Industrial School of Virginia, $25; O. F. Helm, 
$10; offering at Missionary Meeting, $4; to Richland church. $8.02; 
total expenditures, $182.89; receipts. -$242.83; balance, $59.94. Officers: 
President, Sister Susan Layser; Vice-President, Sister Emma Buch; 
Superintendent, Mary Balsbaugh; Secretary, the writer; Treasurer, 
Lizzie Roy er.— Naomi Rentschler, Richland, Pa., Dec. 14. 

STAUNTON. VA. (Senior Aid Society).— Meetings held, 13; average 
attendance. 8; enrollment, 11. Received from last year, $5.69; Y. 
M. C. A. suppers and cake and pie sales, $228.31; sewing, $77.06; 
donations, on quilt, $71; miscellaneous sales. $27.75; offerings, $10.26; 
birthday, $1.83; total, $421.96. Disbursements: Y. M. C. A. suppers, 
cakes and pies, $105.72; for goods, $36.11; pastor's salary. $55; church 
improvements, $188.93; series of meetings, $10; District work, $10.15; 
benevolence, $9.78; total, $415.61; balance, $6.35. Officers: President, 
Sister J. C. Garber; Vice-President, Sister H. M. Gnrber; Secretary, 
the writer; Treasurer, Edna Go u eh en our.— Sadie V. Crickcnberger, 
Staunton, Va., Dec. 11. 



FALLEN ASLEEP 



Blemlcr. Sister Anna Myers, born June 28, 1849, died Nov. 30, 
1923, following a paralytic stroke. Oct. 10, 1869, she was married to 
Daniel Blemler, who preceded her in 1914. There were six children. 
Two sons survive, also one brother, a sister and seven grand- 
children. She was a member of the' Church of the Brethren and 
lived faithful to the end. Services at the home of her son by 
Bro. A. L. Sellers. Interment in Astoria cemetery.— Hettie L. 
Gibble, Astoria, 111. 

Clint, Bro. David R., born near Burlington, Iowa, died near Lone 
Tree, Iowa, Dec. 6, 1923, aged 82 years, 11 months and 1 day. 
He married Anna Swonger Oct. 29, 1863. Eight children survive. 
He united with the Church of the Brethren early in life and re- 
mained faithful. Services near Lone Tree, Iowa, by the writer. 
Burial in Swank cemetery near by.— J. D. Browcr, South English, 
Iowa. 

Davis, Mordecai, born in Maryland, died at his home in Arcadia, 
Ind., Dec. 13, 1923, aged 72 years, 1 month and 14 days. He mar- 
ried Minerva Beard m 1873, There were seven children. The wife 
and two children preceded him. Nov. 1, 1913, he married Ida C. 
Gintert, who survives with five children. He was a faithful member 
of the Church of the Brethren for about forty-five years. Services 
in the Arcadia church by Eld. I. B. Wike. — Sarjh Kinder, Arcadia, 
Ind. 

Dellenbach, Win. F., died Dec. 2, 1923, aged 63 years and 27 days. 
He married Lizzie Berkebile Nov. * 12, 1889. He united with the 
Church of the Brethren twenty-five years ago and lived a faithful 
and consistent Christian life, serving the church as deacon for a 
number of years. He is survived by his wife, two sons, one daughter, 
two grandsons, three brothers, and two sisters. Two children pre- 
ceded him. Services at the Richland Center church by the writer, 
assisted by Bro. G. W. Ellenberger.— Ira H. Frantz, Beattie, Kans. 

Daxmer, Mrs. Sarah Ann, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Rudisell, 
died suddenly at her home in Leeseburg in November, aged 87 years, 
9 months and 29 days. She was born in York County, Pa., and came 
to Illinois with her husband and children in 1866. She leaves seven 
children, nineteen grandchildren and twenty-nine great-grandchildren. 
She was a member of the Church of the Brethren for about sixty years. 
Services at the Woodland church by Eid. Chas. Walters. Inter- 
ment in the Woodland cemetery.— Mrs. Lydia Bucher, Astoria, HI. 

Dunbar, Eugene, born in Fulton County, Ohio, died Dec. 9, 1923, 
aged 62 years and 3 days. In 1885 he married Catherine Stutzman. 
There were four sons. His wife preceded him in 1896. He later 
married Mattie'King. The four sons and his wife survive. Services 
at Delta in the Christian church by the writer, assisted by A. C. 
Lambert, of that church.— D. P. Koch, Montpclicr, Ohio. 

Fox, Hannah, died Oct. 2, 1923. aged 86 years, 3 months and 2 
days. She was the daughter of Eld. Samuel and Catherine Mohler, 
one of the pioneer families of the church at Sugar Grove. In 
November, 1857, she married John Fox. They spent most of their 
life on a farm west of Covington. There were five sons and two 
daughters. Two sons died when quite young. She united with 
the church in her youth and it was the church that gave her com- 
fort and spiritual strength all through life. The Sunday-school 
class meant much to her. She leaves one brother, five children, 
fourteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.— E. M. Fox, 
Covington, Ohio. 

Good, Bro. James H., died in the .Sangerville congregation, Sept. 
8, 1923, aged 74 years and 13 days. He united with the church 
many years ago. He leaves a wife, one son and one foster son. 
One son preceded him. He also leaves one brother and two sisters. 
While he had been in failing health for some years he was ill 
only a short time. During this illness he called for the anoint- 
ing. Services at Sangerville by Bro. J. M. Foster. Interment in 
the cemetery near by.— Meda G. Argenbright, Bridgewater, Va. 

Hay, Eleanora Catherine Weighley, died Dec. 15, 1923, in the bounds 
of the Berlin congregation. Pa., aged 38 years, 3 months and twenty- 
two days. She united with the Church of the Brethren when quite 
young and remained a consistent member to the end. She was 
married to Robert W. Hay, June 2, 1910. Funeral services by the 
undersigned, her pastor, in the Brethren Church at Berlin. Inter- 
ment in the cemetery near by.— D. K. Clapper, Meyersdale, Pa. 

Henderson, Boyd, son of Edw. and Mahala Henderson, born in 
Miami County, Ohio, near Potsdam, died in a hospital in Troy, 
Dec. 2, 1923, aged 41 years, 4 months and 11 days. He married Lola 
Longenecker Aug. 29, 1903. There were five children. Death was 
due to an accident when the automobile in which he was riding 
was struck by a train. He is survived by his wife, four sons, one 
daughter, father and one brother. Services from the Church of 
the Brethren in Potsdam by Eld. Newton Binkley, assisted by 
Rev. Chas. Fryman of the U. B. Church. Services at the same 
hour, to accommodate the large overflow audience, at the Mennonite 
church by their pastor, Rev. Flescher. Interment in the ceme- 
tery near by. — Mary Weisenbarger, Laura, Ohio. 

High, John W., born in Lancaster County, Pa., Nov. 23, 1850, died 
at the home of his son, S. W. High, of New Plymouth, Idaho, aged 
73 years and 16 days. Oct. 22, 1874 he married Mary Ann Hunch- 
berger. There were five sons and one daughter. All the family have 
passed away hut the one son. In 188S the family moved from 
Pennsylvania to Nebraska where two years later the deceased united 
with the Church of the Brethren and seemed to enjoy sweet fellow- 
ship to the last. Services and burial at his former home at 
Octavia, Nebr.— L. H. Eby, Friritland, Idaho. 

Huffman, Sister Susan, died at her home in the bounds of the 
Unity congregation Dec. 3, 1923, aged 80 years, 9 months and 11 
days. Her husband preceded her Dec. 27, 1922. She was a devoted 
mother and was consecrated to her church. She leaves six chil- 
dren, twenty-seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. 
Services from the Fairview church by the home brethren. Burial 
in the adjquing cemetery.— Annie Huffman, Timberville, Va. 

Kingcry, David F., son of David and Elizabeth Kingcry, born 
in Indiana, Nov. 7, 1844. He came with his parents to Iowa and 
settled in Monroe County, near Albia, where he grew to manhood. 
OL a family of nine children, only one sister survives. He married 
Sarah J. Miller Feb. 17, 1870. There were nine children. Two 
daughters preceded him. He is also survived by twenty-eight grand- 
children and ten great-grandchildren. He united with the Church 
of the Brethren when about forty-five years of age and has since 
lived a devoted Christian life. He has lived the past year with 
his son George, and his daughter, Mrs. Laura Hickcox, at whose 
home he died Dec. 5, 1923, aged 79 years and 28 days. His wife 
died Dec. 30, 1917. Services by Bro. H. F. Caskey. Interment ^ 
in Mt. Etna cemetery— Wm. Hickcox, Corning, Iowa. 

McNett, Sister Malinda J., died in the Sangerville congregation, 
July 7, 1923, aged 84 years, 3 months and 6 days. She was a- member 
of the church for many years. She leaves one son and one daughter. 
Her husband preceded her many years ago. Services at Emanuel 
church by Bro. M. G. Sanger, assisted by Bro. C. W. Zimmerman. 
Interment in the cemetery near by— Meda G. Argenbright, Bridge- 
water, Va. 

Neyhart, Sister Melissa A., born in Ohio, died at the home of 
her daughter, Mrs. Nathaniel Warfield, Lafayette, Ind., Dec. 8, 1923, 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



15 



aeed 72 years, 10 months and 7 days. She married Adam Neyhart 
Nov- IS. 187 s - There were five sons and three daughters. The 
husband, one son and one daughter preceded her. Surviving arc 
four sons, two daughters, two step-daughters, one step-son and 
sixteen grandchildren. She was a member of the Church of the 
Brethren. Services in the Pyrmont church. Interment in the 
cemetery near by.— Lulu E. Root, Laiayette, Ind. 

Powell Sister Alma Ethel, daughter of Brother Upton H. and 
Sister Alice Buck Powell, born near Polo, III., Nov. 17, 1886, and 
died Nov. 7, 1923. She was preceded by her father, a sister and 
brother. She leaves her mother, four sisters and three brothers. At 
the age of fourteen she gave her life into her Savior's keeping 
and was ever his consecrated follower. She was an invalid for 
many years, the last two years being confined to her bed. Re- 
signed to her Father's will, her wonderful faith, love and cheerful 
oatience was a benediction to the home, a marvel and inspiration 
for greater service to her pastor and friends. Services by Bro. 
I S. Flory, assisted by Bro. Wm. Lampin.— L. Alice Flory, Polo, III. 
Rhoades, Sister Mary, wife of James C. Rhoades, of Woodland, 
died Dec. 9, 1923, in a hospital at Jacksonville, of pneumonia, aged 
55 years, 8 months and 5 days. She was born in Missouri, and 
died near Astoria, III. She leaves her husband, five children and 
twelve grandchildren, her aged mother, five brothers and four 
sisters She was a faithful member of the Church of the Brethren. 
Services at the Woodland church by Eld. Chas. Walters. Inter- 
ment in the Woodland cemetery.— Mrs. Lydia Bucher, Astoria, 111. 

Senger, Daniel DeWitt, infant son of Bro. Levi and Sister Grace 
Senger, died after a brief illness at the home of hia parents in 
the Saugcrville congregation, Sept. 21, 1923, aged 11 months and 
23 days. Besides his parents he leaves one sister. He was one 
of the Cradle Roll babies. Services in the Sangcrville house by 
Bro. J. M. Foster. Interment in the cemetery near by.— Meda G.„ 
Argenbright, Bridgewater, Va. 

Warren, John C, died at his home near Heidlersburg, Pa., Nov. 
21 1923, aged 69 years, 8 months and 2 days. Death was due to 
a stroke. He is survived by his wife, who is a member of the 
Church of the Brethren. Services by Eld. W. G. Group in the 
Friends Grove church. Burial in adjoining cemetery.— Mrs. Walter 
A. Kceney, East Berlin, Pa. 

Wampler, Elizabeth Kinsie. died Dec. 6. 1923, aged 81 years, 6 
months and IS days. She married J. W. Wampler Dec. 4, 1866. 
They moved from Ohio to Crawford County, Kans., in 1885, and 
were instrumental in building up a church while there. In 1907 
they came to Garden City, where she had lived since. She was a very 
devoted Christian throughout her life. She leaves her husband, 
two sons and three daughters. One son preceded her. Services 
at the church in Garden City by the writer.— D. H. Heckman, Garden 
City, Kans. 

Wblaler, Jacob, born in Wayne County, Ind., died at hia home 
near Atlanta, Ind., Dec. 11, 1923, aged_73 years and 3 days. He 
married Amanda Pierce in 1873. There were seven children The 
wHe and two children preceded him. Services in the Arcadia 
church by Eld. I. B. Wike. Interment in the cemetery near by — 
Sarah Kinder. Arcadia. Ind. 



OFFICIAL DIRECTORY 

Ge-ral Miuion Bo.rd.-H. C. Early, Chsira..*, Flora, Ind.; 
Olho Winger, VicChairmao, North M.nche.tor, tad ; J. J. Voder, 
McPherson, Kan..; A. P. Blough, 1315 Grant Ave, Waterloo, Iowa; 
H H Nye, EliMbrthtown, Pa. General Secretary, Chas. D Bonuek, 
El'cm 111-: Educational Secretary, H. Spenser Minnich, Eton. 111.. 
Home Secretary, M. R. Zigler, Elgin, 111.; Treasurer, Clyde M. 
Culp. El 8 in, 111- , .„ 

General Sunday School tWd.-C. S. Ikenberry, Cha.nnan, DaUydle. 
Va ■ E. M. Studehaker, Vice-Cha.rman, La Verne, Calif., H. K. Ober, 
Elieabethtown, P..; L. W. Shulta, 2022 Sherman Ave., Evanston, 111.; 
Eva Liehty Whisler, Milledgcvillc, 111. General Secretary and Field 
Director Ezra Flory, Elgin, 111.; Secretary Young Peoples Division 
and Treasurer, C. H. Shamberger, Elgin, 111. 

General Educational Bc.ro.-D. W. Kurtr, President, McPherson, 
Kans ■ D M Garver, Vice-President, Trotwood, Ohio; J. S. Noff. 
singer', Secretary-Treasurer, 211 W. 102nd St., New York City; J. S. 
Flory, Bridgewater, Va.; J. W. Lear, 3435 W. Van Buren Street, 
Chicago, 111.; Assistant Secretary lor the Board, H. Spenser Minnich, 
Elgin, 111. 

General MinlsteriaJ Boui-W. S. Long, President, 510 Fifth St , 
Altoona, Pa.; D. H. Zigler, Vice-President, Broadway, Va.; S. S. 
■ Blough, Secretary, 328 Central Ave., Decatur, I1L; David Met.ler, 
Treasurer, Nappanee, Ind.; S. J. Miller, La Verne, Calif. 

Temperance and Purity Committee.-S. A. Blessing. Chairman, West 
Milton, Ohio; H. S. Replogle, Secretary, Oaks, Pa ; M. W. Emmert 
Treasurer, Mt. Morris, HI.; Field Secretary, Virgil C FinneU, North 
Manchester, Ind. 

Pom. Commltte«.-W. J. Swigart, Chairman, Huntingdon, Pa.; J. 
M. Henry, Secretary, New Windsor, Md.; Jacob Funk, Treaaurer, La 
Veme, Calif. Advisory Member, I. W. Taylor, Ephrata, Pa. 

Homeless Children Committee.-M. B, Brumbaugh, Chairman, Mar- 
tinsburg, Pa.; P. S. Thomas, Secretary, Harrisonburg Va., E. E. 
John, Treasurer, McPherson, Kans. Advisory Member, Geo. L. 
Carl, 1125 Albina Ave., Porttand, Ore. Advisory Members from 
Sisters' Aid Society: Rachel A. Ulery Timberville, Va.; Ida M. 
Winger. North Manchester, Ind.; Mrs. John L. Kuns, McPherson, 
Kans.; Jennie Brubaker, Covina, Calif. 

Dm, Reform Commltw^E. M. Studehaker, Chairman, La Verne, 
Calif.; J. J. John. Vice-chairman, New Windsor, Md.; Lydia E. 
Taylor, Secretary-Treasurer, Mt. Morris, IU.; Eva Trestle. 3435 Van 
Buren St., Chicago; Mary Polk Ellenberger, Holmesvilie, Nebr. 

Tract Examrjuni Committee.-T. T. Myers, Chairman, Huntingdon, 
Pa.; James M. Moore, Secretary-Treasurer, 113 S. Church St., Waynes- 
boro, Pa.; J. P. Dickey, La Verne. Calif.; Edgar Rothrock, La Verne. 
Calif.; E. B. Hoff. 1306 S. Seventeenth Ave.. May wood, HI. 

Music Commlttc-Cora M. Stahly, Chairman. Nappanee, Ind. ; 
William Beery, Secretary, Elgin, 111.; J. B. Miller. Treaaurer, Curry- 
ville, Pa. 
« Conference Progntm Committ«e.-W. O. Beckner, Chairman, Mc- 
Pherson, Kans.; C. C. Kiody, Secretary, Huntington, Ind.; J. A. 
Do 



:, Cloverdale, ._, 

Brethren Publishing House.— Board, of Directors: 



Brethren Publishing House.— Board, ol uirectors: n v- Early, 
President, Flora, Ind.; Otbo Winger, Vice-President, North Man- 
chester, Ind.; J. J. Yoder, McPherson, Kans.; A. P. Blough, Waterloo, 
Iowa; H. H. Nye, Eliaabethtown. Pa. Manager and Treasurer, K. 
E. Arnold, Elgin, 111. Secretary, Lauren T. Miller, Elgin, 111. 

Council of Promotioo.-Ceneral Director: J. W. Lear, IS S. State St., 
Elgin, Bl. Membership: Standing Committee Representative, F. F. 
Holsopple, 120 E. Washington St., Hagerslown, Md.; General Mission 
Board, Chas. D. Bonsack; General Sunday School Board Ejra Flory; 
General Educational Board, J. S. Noffsinger; General Ministerial 
Board. S. S. Blough; Temperance and Purity Committee, M. w. Em- 
mert; Peace Committee, W. J. Swigart; Dress Reform Committee. 
Lydia E. Taylor; Homeless Children Committee. P. S. Thomas; Iract 
Examining Committee, E. B. Hoff; Music Committee, William Beery; 
Conference Program Committee, J. A. Dove; Brethren Publishing 
House, L. T. Miller. Organization: Chairman, J. A. Dove; Secretary. 
J. S. Noffsinger; Treasurer, Clyde M. Culp. 

Officer, of Sister.' Aid Soclety.-Mrs. J. C Myers, President, Broad- 
way Va.; Mrs. Geo. L. Studehaker, Vice-President, Muncie, Ind.. 
Mrs. Levi Minnich, Secretary-Treasurer, Greenville, Ohio. 

Auditing Commlttee.-E. M. Butterbaugh, S2o E. Indiana Avenue, 
South Bend, Ind.; J. J. Oiler, Waynesboro, Pa. 

Member of Advisory Board of America Bible Society-Albert C. 
Wieand, 832 S. Humphrey Avenue, Oak Park, 111. 

General Railway Traa.pOTt.Uon Agent— J. F. Appleman, Plymouth, 
Ind. 

Annual Meeting Tmsursr.-E. J. Stauffer, Mulberry Grove, IU. 



192 4 



Lesson Commentaries 




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16 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 5, 1924 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER 



Official Organ of the Church of the Brethren 

Publishing House, R. E. Arnold, Gen- 
St., Elgin, 111., at $2.00 per* annum, in 
I fifty cents extra.) 



Published weekly by Brethi 
eral Manager, 16 lo 2J S. Sti 
advance. (Canada subscript 



EDWARD FRANTZ, 

Editor 



Entered at the Postoffice i 
Acceptance for mailing at si 
section 1103, Act of October 



Elgin, 111., as Second-class Matter, 
cial rate of postage provided for in 
3. 1917, authorized August 20, 1916. 



Notes From Our Correspondents 

(Continued from Page 1.1) 

Pleasant View church met in council Dec. IS, with Eld. David 
Bycrly presiding. All church and Sunday-school officers were elected 
for the year: Elder, David Bycrly; superintendent, Jesse Miller. 
Several letters were * granted .— Hattic E. Driver, Beaverdam, Ohio, 
Dec. 21. 

Stonelick church met in council Dec. 1 with Eld. L. A. Book- 
Valter presiding. All cTturch and Sunday-school officers were elected 
for the year. Dec. H Eld. J. A. Robinson, of Pleasant Hill, Ohio, 
gave his lecture on " Problems of the Home," which was very 
instructive and was much appreciated by all. Dec. JO Eld. 0. P. 
Haines, of Lima, will beg'" a revival here. Our Sunday-school and 
Christian Workers' Meeting is increasing in attendance and in- 
terest.— Mary S. Carr, Ncwtonsville, Ohio, Dec. 17. 
J West Fulton congregation met in council Dec. 8, with Eld. Dan 
! Koch presiding. Five letters were received. The following officers 
were elected for the year: Elder, L. I. Moss; clerk, Dan Stuti- 
man; trustee, Aaron Beck; Sister Elma Beck, "Messenger" agent. 
Our scries of meetings began Dec. 16, in charge of Bro. L. I. Moss 
of this place. Bro. Dan Koch stayed over and gave us a fine 
sermon Sunday morning. Dec. 23 we expect lo have our Christmas 
program, an all-day meeting with basket dinner.— Mrs. Aaron Beck, 
Wauseon, Ohio, Dec. 19. „, 

OKLAHOMA 

Big Creek,— Our quarterly council was held Dec. 20, with Bro. Sala 
In charge. Sunday-school and church officers for the coming year 
were elected as follows: Sunday-school superintendent, Bro. Ira 
Mohlcr; Christian Workers' president, Bro. Roy Fillmore; corre- 
spondent, the writer; " Messenger " agent, Andrew Holdcrrcad. We 
decided that if Bro. Finnell comes into our District we will ask 
him to give us a lecture on temperance. A committee was appointed 
to arrange special programs for Sunday-school and church. Seven 
letters were granted, as Bro. Sala and family arc leaving for their 
new location. We will be greatly in need of a minister, as we have 
none for the coming year. We held our Christmas exercises Dec. 23. 
We had a very interesting program and a large audience.— Lucinda 
K. Fillmore, Cushing, Okla., Dec, 24. 

Oklahoma City— A very interesting business meeting was held 
Dec. 14, when both church and Sunday-school officers were elected, 
with Bro. J. R. Pit2er, elder; Sister Grace Huffman, church clerk; 
Bro. Clark, "Messenger" agent and Sunday-school superintendent; 
Sister Pearl Huffman, correspondent; Christian Workers* presi- 
dent, Sister Alpha Franks. A scries of meetings will be held in 
January with Bro. O. H. Fciler in charge. At the close we expect 
to hold a love feast.— Pearl Huffman, Oklahoma City, Okla., Dec. 18. 

OREGON 

met in council Nov. 28, with Eld. John Bonewitz 
:rs and officers were elected for the coming year, 
ised for a new mission point at Pendleton, Ore. 
are living there and desire a Sunday-school- We 
W. Barnclt, of Portia " 



s of meetings in Pendleton and to help 

Jro. Barnctt will also hold a few meetings 

ilon Mountain. We miss the help and 

Miller and family who 



Weston church 
in charge. Teach' 
Plans were discu 
Several members 
expect Bro. J. 
January, to hold 
further with the plans. 
at Weston and on W( 
fellowship of Bro. J. D 

Hass. Wash., where they are busy with the Lord's work. They 
have started a Sunday-school in their own home.— Mrs. E. E. 
Tucker, Weston, Ore., Dec. 16. 

PENNSYLVANIA 

Aughwick.— The scries of meetings held in the Rock Hill church- 
house closed on the ]6th. The first week the pastor did the most 
of the preaching, and later was assisted by Bro. Stanly Ober, a 
son of Bro. H. K. Ober. From the beginning there were good 
interest and attendance. A number of confessions were made the 
first week. Later Bro. John R. Snyder, of Huntingdon, arrived 
and remained until the close, preaching strong sermons and visit- 
ing in many homes. The last Sunday evening his subject was 
" He Went Away," concerning the rich young ruler who went away 
sorrowful rather than give his money. The large congregation 
seemed wonderfully interested. Sister Stout conducted the music. 
There were twenty -two confessions. Fourteen have been baptized 
and more will be soon. The pastor is organizing a Teacher-train- 
ing Class and also a class to instruct the new converts. Over 
forty confessions have been made since Sept. 1. The meeting in 
the Germany Valley house will be held next summer.— Wealthy A. 
Burkholder. Shirleysburg, Pa., Dec. 24. 

East Fairview church met in council Dec. 1, with Eld. S. B. 
Fahnestock presiding. Bro. John K. Earhart was reelected super- 
intendent. We have just closed a two weeks' evangelistic campaign 
conducted by Eld. Hiram Kay lor. We received splendid sermons 
throughout the meetings. One came out during the services. The 
meetings were well attended. Nov. 25 we held our local Sunday- 
school meeting. The topics were well discussed. Sister Agnes Geib 
talked on " The Teacher of Tomorrow," emphasizing the fact that 
the teacher must know Christ before he is entitled to the name 
Christian, that he must be one who has experienced the second 
birth and that he must know his Bible. The teacher of tomorrow 
roust be trained to be tactiul, earnest, eager, ambitious, consecrated, 
enthusiastic and real. "The Sunday-school and Church United for 
Consecrated Service," was discussed by Bro. John K. Earhart. The 
Sunday-school is the link that binds the home and the church. 
The Sunday-school is the church organized (or the purpose of 
teaching the Word of God. The Sunday-school and the church 
should pull together. "The Sunday-school as a factor in Re- 
ligious Education " was very well discussed by Eld. Geo. Weaver. 
The fact was strongly emphasized that education without Christ 
is poison. The address on " Consecration of Young Lives " was 
delivered by Bro. Alvin P. Wcnger. He laid special stress on 
the fact that all— young and old— must be consecrated if they 
expect to win souls for Christ. The church and Sunday-school are 
making a special effort every third Sunday to take an offering 
to keep the missionary allotted to us on the field.— Jerome S. Long, 
Manheim, Pa., Dec. 19. 

Lancaster.— During November the Children's Day exercises and the 
love feast and communion services were enjoyed by the congregation. 
Bro. Frank Carper, of Palmyra, also preached a very good mis- 
sionary sermon. The offering at the Thanksgiving service was 
lifted for world-wide missions. At the December council the yearly 
election of officers took place.— Mrs. C. L. Martin, Lancaster, Pa., 
Dec. 20. 

Myers town .—Oct. 18 Sister Kathryn Zicgler spoke on India. There 
was a good attendance at our love feast held Nov. 10 and 11. 
Several ministers of other congregations were present. Eld. Amos 
Hottenstein. of East Petersburg, officiated. * The meetings con- 
ducted by Bro. Hiram Eshelman, of Me. Joy, at the Tulpehocken 
house; Nov. 18 to Dec. 2. were largely attended. The interest 
shown by the people told of their hunger for the plain truths of 
the Gospel. One was reclaimed. Bro. Eshelman preached the 
Thanksgiving sermon. The offering was for foreign missions. Our 



regular council was held Dec. 1, with Eld. Wm. H. Oberholtzer pre- 
siding. The different committees gave their reports and members 
were elected for each committee. Bro. Harrison Gipc was appointed 
Sunday-school superintendent.— Alice B. Royer, Myerstown, Pa„ 
Dec, 20. 

Penncrsville.— This is a mission point in Antietam congregation, 
located on the Blue Ridge Mountains, in a summer resort section, 
and is worked by members from the Rouzerville church. Our 
congregation, a few years ago, purchased a lodge building here 
ami converted it into a church. Two preaching services are held 
here each mouth, and a Sunday-school each Sunday afternoon. 
Previous to Dec. 9 there were eight members of our church liv- 
ing in this territory; a few of those did not get to services. On 
Dec. 9 we baptized three, as a result of a two weeks'- series of 
meetings held in the church by the writer, closing Nov. 18. Be- 
sides these three - baptisms, the meetings have strengthened the 
Sunday-school, and doubled our church attendance. Following a 
series of meetings in the Rouzerville church, conducted by Bro. 
John F. Graham, of Shippensburg, Pa., three were baptized.— M. A. 
Jacobs. Waynesboro, Pa.. Dec. 19. 

Perry.— Our re 
pastor, Bro. T. 
ing the best att< 
some time. Br< 
sermons. One w 
number of others 
moved into our 
which 



;loscd Nov. 25, conducted by our 
?. Dick. The meeting was very successful, be- 
ided of any held in the Three Springs house for 
Dick preached very touching and impressive 
s received by baptism. We expect to receive a 
s in the near future. Some members have recently 
r neighborhood. They are good church workers, 
..ispiration to us. We also feel encouraged as we 
expect to have preaching services every Sunday during the winter. 
'Jan. 6 we will have with us the Volunteer Mission Band of Eliza- 
bclhtown.— Alice Rcedcr, Blain, Pa., Dec. 17. 

Pleasant Hill church held her annual service on Thanksgiving „ 
Day at the PJcasant Hill house. Our offering for world-wide mis- 
sions amounted to $104. Dec. 8 we met in council with Eld. David 
B. Hohf presiding. Two were received by letter. We reorganized 
our Sunday-school by reelecting Bro. Edman H. Miller superintendent. 
Wc also lifted an offering at each of our churcfihouses for the 
Old Folks' Home which amounted to $30.86.— Paul K. Newcomer, 
Spring Grove, Pa., Dec. 17. 

Shade Creek.— We met in council Dec. 18, at which time officers 
were elected for the coming year. Bro. F. R. Zook was elected 
elder. Bro. B. N. Lehman, elected to the ministry some time ago, 
has taken up the work. The graduating exercises for the Teacher- 
ing Class at the Ridge hoi 



M c PHERS0N COLLEGE 

A Standard Christian College 

both with the State University, and 

a member of The North Central Association. 

THOROUGH AND COMPLETE COURSES 

OFFERED IN 

LIBERAL ARTS FINE ARTS 

BIBLE BUSINESS 

A complete list of Student Activities, all open 

on a competitive basis. 

SECOND SEMESTER BEGINS JAN. 21, 1924 

Write for further information or catalogue 

to 

McPHERSON COLLEGE 

McPherson, Kansas 

COLLEGE ACADEMY 

D. Webster Kurtz, A. M„ D.D. J. J. Yoder, A. B. 

President Pres. Board of Trustees 



day-school 
the work for the year is being pi 
living in Central ^ity and Caii 
services. Nov. 4 



ill be held Dec. 30. The Sun- 
elected at the different schools 



: the i 

ibrook have been eager to ha 
jf Windber, began 



_. Central City in an unused school building. The meetings con- 
tinued for three weeks with good interest. Eleven were baptized, one 



;ored and a uumbc 
nd her work have come 
ng togethe 
s pastor there and the 
Windber. Pa.. 1 



W 



th the church 

closer fellowship and all arc work- 

ise. Bro. Minnich has been secured 

ork looks very encouraging.— Mrs. J. L. 

, 24. 

Upper Conewago congregation met in council in the East Berlin 
house Dec. 8, with Eld. S. S. Miller presiding. One certificate was 
granted. Various officers for the coming year were elected. Our 
love feast will be held at thf Mummert house May 17 and 18, 
and at the Latimore house Oct. 18 and 19. Nov. 17, Bro. Michael 
Kurtz began a revival, laboring earnestly for two weeks. The 
meetings closed Dec. 2. Two were baptized. Bro. Kurtz de- 
Jivered eloquent sermons and the congregation feels greatly benefited. 
Nov. 29 lie preached for us at the Latimore house where we held our 
Thanksgiving service. An offering of $145.75 was lifted for missions, 
$98.26 being given by the East Berlin church and $47.49 by the Latimore. 
—Mrs. Walter A. Keeney, East Berlin, Pa., Dec. 17. 

TENNESSEE 

Pleasant View.— Bro. John Jackson, of Relief, N. C, began a 
revival at Pleasant View in Washington County, Tenn., near Jones- 
boro, Dec. 1 and continued until the 16th. Bro. Jacks*! is a 
very able speaker and preaches with power and great earnest- 
ness. The result of the meeting was not what we anticipated but 
the church was very much revived. Two were received by bap- 
tism. The meeting closed with a good interest. But right at' the 
close there was great sadness occasioned by the destruction of 
our churchhousc by fire on Saturday night. Sunday morning the 
church was in ashes but we do not know how it caught fire. How- 
ever, we had services in a dwelling house near by. The church 
was built about forty-seven years ago. Our financial loss is not 
less than SI, 200. but we contemplate building again, provided we 
can secure the means, and I know we can. More than likely we 
will select another site as the present one is not desirable. We 
ask the general Brotherhood to pray for us.— Jesse D. Clarke, 
Jouesboro. Tenn., Dec. 18. 

VIRGINIA 
met in council Dec. IS, with Eld. L. B. 
for the coming year were elected, with 
Jrethren T. W. Roberson and D. P. Quann, 
Sunday -school superintendents; Sister Mamie Sullivan, clerk and 
church correspondent. Two members of the Ministerial Board were 
with us, and Bro. D. P. Quann and wife were installed in the 
ministry. Since our last report six letters of membership have 
been granted. About the middle of August Bro. J. F. Britton, 
of Bueua Vista, began a series of meetings at this place and con- 
tinued for two weeks. There were no accessions but the membership 
was greatly strengthened.— Bertha M. Quann, Fredericksburg, Va., 
Dec. 17. 

let in council Dec. 15, with Levi Garst as 
g-officers were elected for the year: Mary 
Garst and Mary Webster, " Messenger " 
espondent. We are looking forward to a 
days of Bible work beginning Dec. 26. Bro. Letcher Kinzie 
began a meeting at Salem, a mission point in this congregation, 
continuing two weeks. As a result of his earnest preaching, three 
were baptized. Sister Bertha Ikenberry led the music and did 
much personal work.— Ida Showalter, Roanoke, Va., Dec. 22. 

Sangerville church met in council Dec. 7, with Eld. J. W. Wine 
presiding. Our Sunday-school Superintendents for the new year 
arc: Emanuel, J. S. Kiracofe and J. W. Michael; Branch, A. S. 
Driver and Odis Kiracofe; Sangerville, J. S. Wine and D. W. Garber. 
Some of our schools are using the graded literature and starting 
the year with Oct. 1. Our third annual Thanksgiving program was 
rendered at the Sangerville house. This program is given jointly 
by the young people of our three- Sunday-schools and a basket 
dinner is served.— Mcda G. Argenbright, Bridgewatcr, Va., Dec. 18. 

WASHINGTON 

Omak church met in regular council Dec. 1, and elected church 
and Sunday-school officers for 1924. Sister Sarah Stiverson was 
elected superintendent and " Messenger ". correspondent; Bro. B. 

E. Breshears, Publishing House agent. We had services on Thanks- 
giving day with dinner at the church. In the afternoon the sisters 
had their Aid Society meeting, and the men folks cut wood for the 
church. An offering was taken for world-wide missions. Our young 
people are all active in the Christian Workers' Society. The at- 
tendance is keeping ^p well at all the services; some, we believe, 
are near the Kingdom.— J. U. G. Stiverson, Omak, Wash., Dec. 19. 

WEST VIRGINIA 

Magnolia Settlement.— This is a new congregation just started 
The first sermon was preached by Bro. J. L. Shanholtz, Feb. 13 
last. There was one member at the place to start with. We had 
a series of meetings lasting one week, with two converts. After- 
ward we had services every two and three weeks, and another series of 
meetings, beginning Nov. 17. Twelve able sermons were delivered 
and a love feast was held. The membership then was eleven 
There has been one baptism since. There will be services at the 
vame place Dec. 23. when our pastor, Bro. Shanholtz, will preaol. —A 

F. Allen, Magnolia. W. Va., Dec. 17. 



Hollywood congregatio 
Flohr presiding. Officci 
Eld. L. B. Flohr, 



Peters Creek church r 
moderator. The followir 
Webster, clerk; Kate 



With Williams 

Our Secretary 

The great Christian 
ideals exemplified in 
the lives of the early- 
apostles are known to 
us because a record 
of their acts has been 
preserved i n printed 
form. 

The story of Brother 
Williams' life will be 
to the young people of 
our church what Carey 
and Livingstone have 
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More than 2500 sold 
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blue «loth with Brother Williams' portrait as a 
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BRETHREN PUBLISHING HOUSE 
Elgin, Illinois 





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These booklets were all published by order of the Dress 
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THE SIMPLE LIFE 
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The Gospel Messenger 



'THY KINGDOM COME "— M.n.6: io : uk« 11,2 



" Till we all attain unto . . . the stature of 
the fulness of Christ."— Eph. 4: 13. 



Vol. 73 



Elgin, 111., January 12, 1924 



No. 2 



In This Number 

Editorial— 

A Good and Faithful Servant, 

We Need a Little More Vehemence, 

Among the Churches 

Around the World (J. E. M.) 

The Quiet Hour (J. H. H.) 

Our Forward Movement — 

The Job of a Man (Poem) 

The Every-Member Canvass 

Let Us Be Frank, 



Reaching this country Oct. 18, 1872, his introduc- 
tion to the Brethren was at the Annual Meeting of 
the following spring at Meyersdale, Pa. Here he met 
James Quinter, C. G. Lint, Grabill Myers and other 
leaders of those days. A little later, and for several 
years, he translated the Annual Meeting Minutes into 
German. It was* during his stay in Somerset County 
that he was baptized into the Brethren fellowship by 



Contributors' Forum — 

At Close of Day (Poem) 

Teaching the New Converts. By J. H. Moore 

The Golden Rule. By R. H. Miller 

Plow or Grub Stumps— Which?— By Oliii F. Shaw 

A Pageant of God.— Part S. By H. A. Brandt, 

The Vision and the Task. By Lucile Gibson 

An Ideal Day. By Jno. S. Flory 

In Appreciation. By A. H. Rittenhouse 

The Voices That Carried Back. By Vcrna A. Cooney, 
A Paradox. By A. V. Sagcr 



The Round Table- 
Back to Christ. By Julia Graydon 

Resolutions for the New Year. By Florida J. E. Green, 

Worldliness. By Ezra Flory 

Name of the Good Samaritan. Selected by Wealthy A. Burk- 

holder 

Passwords. By Archer Wallace, 

Analysis of the Lord's Prayer. By Jas. A. Sell 



22 



ome and Family— 

The Father's Task (Poem) 23 

Our Fathers and Mothers of the Dickey Church. By T. S. 

Mohcrman, 23 

Make Beds Comfortable. By Royal S. Copel.ind, M. D 23 



...EDITORIAL... 



A Good and Faithful Servant 

Lewis A. Plate was born at Bremen, Germany, 
July 16, 1855. He died at Elgin, Illinois, Dec. 31, 
1923, his age being, therefore, sixty-eight years, five 
months and fifteen days. 

For more than a year Bro. Plate had been in fail- 
ing health — a fact more apparent to his friends than 
to himself. Against the importunities of his family 
and friends, who besought him to leave off his work 
for a time and take a rest, he remained at his desk up 
to and including Saturday, Dec. 15.' On Sunday fol- 
lowing he went to church and taught his Sunday- 
school class, when he could scarcely stand, and spoke 
with faltering voice. On Monday morning, though 
he had had " a bad night " and was in manifest dis- 
tress, he would have insisted on going down to the 
office as usual, but for the fact that his feet were so 
swollen he could not get his shoes on. Yielding to 
evidence which could not be denied, he went to the 
hospital instead, but only after finishing his last "Quiet 
Hour" topic and writing out suggestions for making 
up the pending issue of the Messenger as he had 
planned it. Yet at no time during the remaining two 
short weeks, did he seem to contemplate any other 
outcome of his illness than quick recovery and re- 
turn to his work. Four days before his death he said 
to the present writer, " The way it looks now, I think 
I can be back at my desk by the early part of next 
week. " Thus, with his whole thought and hope on 
the work which was his meat and drink, he passed 
into unconsciousness and, a few hours before the new 
year dawned, on out and across to the shores where 
swollen limbs and cancerous stomachs can not hinder 
the unrestrained activities of the spirit. 

Lewis was the fourth of five children of F. W. 
Plate, Ph. D., a professor of languages in the Collegiate 
Institute of Bremen, and author of several textbooks. 
His mother was a native of Switzerland. In religion 
the entire family were strict Lutherans. The educa- 
tional advantages of the Bremen city schools were first 
class, which Lewis enjoyed, later taking an advanced 
course at Zurich, Switzerland. At seventeen he came 
to America, prompted by his widowed mother's wish 
to have him escape military duty. 




L. A. PLATE 

Assistant Editor of the Gospel I 
Died Dec. 31, 1923 



Eld. Valentine Blough. Soon after, lie accepted a 
position in the office of The Pilgrim, at Huntingdon, 
Pa., later conducting a German department in that 
paper. In 1875 he started a small German monthly, 
Der Brilderbote, at Lancaster, Pa. At the solicita- 
tion of J. T. Myers, the paper was removed to Ger- 
mantown, an English department was added, and the 
reconstructed monthly was named Brethren's Mes- 
senger. 

In 1876 arrangements were made to remove the 
Brethren's Messenger to Lanark, 111. Here J. T. 
Myers, for a time, was associated with J. H. Moore 
and M. M. Eshelman in the publishing of the paper, 
now to be known as Brethren at Work. Bro. Plate was 
part of the equipment which Bro. Myers brought 
along to the western plant, and, with the exception of 
one brief period, had been associated with our pub- 
lishing interests ever since. In 1907 he was brought 
into closer touch with the management of the Gospel 
Messenger by being made assistant editor, and served 
in that capacity until his death. 

Oct. 9, 1878, he was married to Sister Laura A. 
Miller, of Lanark, 111., a union which was broken by 
Sister Plate's death in the spring of 1917. Of the six 
children born to them, two sons and one daughter 
died in infancy. The eldest daughter died at twenty- 
one, about a year after her marriage. Two daughters 
survive their father. 

Bro. Plate's official standing in the church was 
that of deacon, in which office he served with the same 
conscientious devotion as in everything else. He was 
interested in all local church activities, never missing 
the prayer meeting or other service, unless hindered 
by sickness, which was very seldom. In the Sunday- 
school parade, which was put on by the churches of 
Elgin last November, he carried a banner on which 
was inscribed, " Perfect attendance for twenty-four 
years. " For some years previous to his removal to 



Elgin he was trustee of the Old Peoples and Orphans' 
Home at Mount Morris, and for several years served 
also on the General Church Erection and Missionary. 
Committee, which later became the General Mission 
Board. * 

His outstanding service, of course, was that which 
he rendered as assistant editor of the Gospel Mes- 
senger, and this was briefly described in an article on 
" Editors of the Messenger " which appeared in our 
issue of Nov. 17 last. Because of his close confine- 
ment to this work he was not known by face to many 
of the church at large. He was of those whose lot 
it is to " stay by the stuff " and keep the machinery 
running properly. To see that the Messenger came 
out regularly and promptly and as nearly perfect 
mechanically as is humanly possible— this was his 
pride and joy. He hardly knew how to enjoy him- 
self at anything else. His passion for exactness some- 
times led him beyond what others would have thought 
necessary or advisable, but such a fault was easily 
forgiven in the presence of such consecrated applica- 
tion to his task. His sense of responsibility for the 
work entrusted to him was complete, and rare and 
beautiful was the devotion with which he gave him- 
self to it. To those who knew his lifelong daily habit, 
it was not strange, after all, that when death was al- 
ready stealing over his emaciated frame, he was eager- 
ly looking forward to the day, which he felt could not 
be deferred "much longer, when he would be at his 
desk again. 

Words are too weak to express the writer's sense of 
personal loss. When he was called to the Messenger 
office, in 1915, as successor to the retiring veteran edi- 
tor, Bro. J. H. Moore, it was Bro. Plate's thorough fa- 
miliarity with every detail of the work, and his com- 
petency for any demands upon him, that made the new 
editor's introduction to his new field comparatively 
easy. And these eight years of intimate association 
have only deepened his appreciation of the sterling 
worth, the remarkably varied and unique ability, and 
the untiring energy and loyalty of his faithful assistant. 
The editor might be called away or be indisposed. That 
mattered little. He knew that everything would go on 
all right just the same. He knew there was a man at 
the helm who could be trusted absolutely. Bro. Plate 
loved the cause, he loved the church, and he loved his 
work. He was of the kind that can not fall out of the 
ranks without being missed. The few weeks he has 
been away have made us understand this better than 
before. 

Funeral services were held in the Highland Avenue 
church Thursday afternoon, Jan. 3, after which the 
body of the departed was laid to rest by the side of that 
of his beloved wife. Peace to his ashes, and may his 
memory be cherished by the thousands for whom he 
labored and by whom his labors have been little under- 
stood. 

Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou in- 
to the joy of thy Lord. 



We Need a Little More Vehemence 

Says the author of a recent book : " He had simply 
a few ideas which burned in his blood like fire, and it 
was his business to drive these ideas home, and to do it 
at once." 

The words refer to the first great missionary to the 
Gentiles. And how aptly they describe him I He had 
no time to build systems. He scarcely had time for 
anything. But he had a great truth and a great love for 
all who did not have that truth. Wherefore his hurry. 
The King's business required haste. 

It does now. But his messengers are half asleep. 
They do not understand. They have no ideas burning 
in their blood like fire. 



18 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



CONTRIBUTORS' FORUM 



At Close of Day 

If you sit down at set of sun, 

And count the acts that you have done, 

And, counting, find 
One self-denying act, one word 
That eased the heart of him who heard; 

One glance most kind, 
That felt like sunshine where it went, 
Then you may count the day well spent. 

But if, through all the livelong day 
You've cheered no heart by yea or nay, 

If through it all 
You've nothing done that you can trace, 
That brought the sunshine to one face, 

No act most small 
That helped some soul, and nothing cost, 
Then count that day as worse than lost. 

— Author Unknown. 



Teaching the New Converts 

BY J. H. MOORE 

From a very recent issue of the Messenger we learn 
that one of the pastors, in Illinois, has organized a 
class, composed of new converts, for the purpose of 
instructing them in the fundamentals of the church. 
He has the class meet in the parsonage once a week, 
while he takes up the various doctrines of the church, 
one at a time, and in this way instructs the young mem- 
bers more perfectly in the way of the Lord. 

We know nothing of the age, experience or efficiency 
of this pastor, but he certainly has struck onto a wise 
plan, a plan that might well be recommended to all 
pastors and elders. When we come to think of it, the 
idea is both reasonable and practical. It does not mean 
dealing with questions of doubt, but matters of faith, 
obedience and church efficiency, teaching just such 
things as all young members should understand at the 
beginning of their Christian life. Soldiers for the army 
after enlistment are instructed and trained so as to be 
prepared for duty. Why not instruct and train the 
soldiers of the cross? The better trained the more pro- 
ficient they will become as workers. 

What our Illinois pastor is doing reminds us of what 
we read in Acts 2:42 concerning the new converts: 
"And they [the newly-baptized converts] continued 
steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship." 
Or, as the Revised Version has it, " the apostles' teach- 
ing." It is helpful to think of the apostles instructing 
the great mass of new converts in the mysteries, duties 
and promises of the Christian religion. In the Great 
Commission these apostles were told to teach, disciple, 
or rather make learners of the nations, and then after 
baptizing them, they were to do still more teaching, 
" teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I 
have commanded you " (Matt. 28: 19, 20). Every con- 
vert to Christianity is entitled to a certain amount of 
teaching so he can, at the proper time, intelligently put 
on Christ in baptism. This thing of becoming a mem- 
ber of the church is not a matter of mere faith, but is a 
matter of spirit and understanding as well. Each one 
who is "baptized into Christ" (Gal. 3:27) should 
know just what he is doing, hence the importance of 
the teaching preceding the initiation, as referred to in 
Matt. 28: 19. 

But the teaching following baptism is fully as im- 
portant. It is one thing to become a member of the 
household of faith, but quite another to understand the 
new duties and responsibilities assumed. When the 
apostles gave attention to a proper training of the Pen- 
tecostal converts, they did no more than what Jesus in 
his last and great commission had told them to do : 
" Teaching them to observe all things " pertaining to 
their duties as church members. It was this wise and 
thorough teaching, upon the part of the apostles, that 
fitted the Jerusalem members for going " everywhere 
preaching the word," when the persecution arose (Acts 
8:4). Having been taught the Gospel, they understood 
the Word, and were therefore in a position to teach it. 
From other parts of the New Testament we learn 
how deeply the apostles and other leaders were con- 
cerned regarding the importance of all the members of 



the body understanding the Christian religion. We 
refer to the incident mentioned in Acts 19. Here we 
read of Paul finding certain disciples, who had been 
baptized without a proper knowledge of just what they 
were doing. After instructing them more fully respect- 
ing the doctrine of the Holy Ghost, he administered to 
them baptism in the proper manner, and in this way 
gave them a new start in the Christian life. These 
twelve at their baptism, as Paul performed it, had the 
Spirit and the Gospel understanding. In the previous 
chapter, verses 24-28, we have an account of another 
instance of teaching. Apollos, a man learned, eloquent 
and devout, hailing from that marvelous center of 
scholarship, Alexandria, Egypt, came to Ephesus and 
began preaching. While there he came in contact with 
Aquila and Priscilla, two members, husband and wife, 
who had received their instructions from Paul. At 
once they perceived that this eloquent Jew, though 
mighty in the Scriptures, the Old Testament, did not 
fully understand what the religion of Jesus meant, 
knowing only the baptism of John. So " they took 
him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of 
God more perfectly" (Acts 18:26). Though a man 
of fine ability and full of zeal, he seems to have ac- 
cepted the teaching and fully adjusted himself to the 
new and additional knowledge. 

It would appear that instructing applicants for 
church membership, before and after baptism, became 
a very early custom and led up to the catechism so com- 
mon in the early centuries. In fact, the system was 
finally developed into a scientific theory, but lost out 
during the Dark Ages. With the dawn of the Refor- 
mation the practice was revived, and a number of cate- 
chisms were prepared by different leaders and church 
organizations. Some of these catechisms are still in use, 
though not employed as persistently as they were three 
and four hundred years ago. 

About the first thing that Alexander Mack did, after 
getting his reformatory movement under way, was to 
publish his book, " Rites and Ordinances of the House 
of God," in the form of a conversation between father 
and son, in which he clearly set forth the New Testa- 
ment principles in a manner easily to be understood by 
the young as well as those of mature years. This book, 
along with another short treatise that he wrote, helped 
very much in unifying the Brethren along doctrinal 
lines, but was never employed in the place of a cate- 
chism. More than a hundred years later Bro. Peter 
Nead came upon the scene, with books in which he dis- 
cussed some of our leading doctrines. Still later the 
" Doctrine of the Brethren Defended," by Bro. R. H. 
Miller, found its way into many of the Brethren homes, 
but in this only points of controversy were considered. 
None of these books, or even some others published 
still later, were adapted to the comprehension of the 
young. 

For years our people have felt the need of a small 
book, in which our doctrine might be treated for the 
benefit of new converts, and especially for young peo- 
ple. Just now there is great need for such a book — a 
book that might be used in a class like the one in charge 
of our Illinois pastor. When I brought out my book, 
" The New Testament Doctrines," the president of one 
of our schools requested me to have published a special 
edition suited to class work in the schoolroom. But as 
I meant to prepare a book for general reading, the book 
for the class has been left for others. For this line of 
work Bro. D. W. Kurtz's " Outline of the Fundamental 
Doctrines of Faith " may be used with profit. But for 
a thorough study of the faith and practice of the Breth- 
ren, along with that part of the Old Testament lead- 
ing up to this doctrine, there is probably nothing among 
us that equals Bro. E. B. Hoff's part (over 200 pages) 
of " Training the Sunday-school Teacher," book two. 
The book is scholarly, clear and concise. The real 
merits of this little book have never been appreciated. 
In his splendid " History and Doctrines of the Church 
of the Brethren," Bro. Otho Winger devotes fifty-four 
very helpful pages to the special doctrinal claims of the 
church. His manner of treating church polity is ad- 
mirably suited to class work, particularly along ad- 
vanced lines. 

But for class work, among new converts, where a 
small book is desired, there is, so far as I know, noth- 



ing quite so convenient as " Our Church," by Bro. C. 
Ernest Davis. It is a small book, costing only "fifty 
cents, and in a brief, clear way, covers the history and 
doctrines of the church. It was prepared for young 
people, and for class work will appeal to all classes of 
new converts. And since a small book is needed for 
just such work as ought to be done by the pastor or 
some one else, in all our churches, we feel disposed to 
make this special mention of Bro. Davis' little book. 
Let us hear more concerning the class of work being 
done by our Illinois pastor, and if a helpful book is 
needed a selection can be made from those named 
above. " 

Sebring, Fla. .-*-* 

The Golden Rule 

BY R. H. MILLER 
"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men 
should do unto you do ye even so to them." 

Therefore 

Note the force of this word. " If ye, being evil, 
know how to give good gifts unto your children, how 
much more shall your Father which is in heaven give 
good things to them that ask him? Therefore, all 
things, whatsoever ye would," etc. 

Be good to each other, because God's goodness is 
unspeakably great and unspeakably sure. 

The goodness of God is the sure foundation of 
human goodness. 

One of the most frequently recurring sentences in 
the Old Testament is : " Be ye holy, for I the Lord thy 
God am holy." 

When men supposed the sun, moon, stars, trees, 
streams, mountains to be indwelt by selfish, hostile 
deities, it was but natural that they should fight among 
themselves. 

But selfishness and war have no place in a family of 
brothers whose Father is a God of love. 

" Since your Father will surely give good things to 
you, therefore, ' Do as you wish to be done by.' " 

We are to be perfect, even as our Father in heaven 
is perfect. 

Children are replicas of their parents. Unkind, im- 
patient, quarreling parents usually have children of 
like temper and vice versa. 

Jesus' " new commandment " is that we should love 
one another as he loved us. Divine goodness is not 
only the pattern but the very life of human goodness. 

The Golden Rule of Life Is Within Reach of All 

One peril of our day is that the educated and the 
privileged should find their own association so con- 
genial that they are content to bask in its warmth, say- 
ing to each other the fine and pretty things which are 
their common property, while the great mass of men go 
by unheeded. 

Be it remembered, that in this separation the masses 
sufferMeast. The educated and privileged are responsi- 
ble for their isolation. They suffer most. 

Our truth ceases to be true when we fail to take it 
out into the highways of life. 

" The common people heard him gladly." "The poor 
have the Gospel preached unto them." Jesus used this 
as proof of his claims. 

The Golden Rule of Life is within reach of all. 

What do you want? What do you desire of others? 
Do the same to them. 

If there is any point in our lives which is clear, ra- 
diant, prominent, it is the " hunger point." We know 
what we want. 

The matchless skill of Jesus is just here — he attaches 
his rule of life to this point. 

Were the skill of it less, the wonder of it were per- 
haps greater. 

Result? Every one who is willing to follow Jesus' 
Golden Rule of Life — knows how. 

The Golden Rule Applies to the Whole of Life 

It works both ways. It improves my conduct. It 
purifies my desires. 

When I check up what I do to others by what I 
would have them do to me, my conduct is improved. 
The Golden Rule guides the feet in paths of right. 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



19 



When I check up my desires by what I am willing to 
give, my desires inevitably become more reasonable. 
The Golden Rule purifies the heart. 

It is two-edged. It applies to the whole of every 
life. 

North Manchester, hid. 



Plow or Grub Stumps — Which? 

BY OLIN F. SHAW 

In conversation with a gentleman from a country 
that is rather unfavorably known for its stump land, 
the writer asked how long it would take for the stumps 
in the soil there to rot out. The answer was that the 
stumps from the hardwood timber, which constituted 
the bulk of them, rotted out in a comparatively few 
years. As for the large pine stumps, he said some of 
them had already stood for three-quarters of a century, 
with indications that they would be good for that many 
more years. My point is, that there came a time in 
redeeming this timbered soil when it was economy — 
it was better business — to quit grubbing stumps and go 
to plowing. Recall that the larger percentage of the 
stumps rotted out of themselves. I have a conviction 
that the Kingdom of heaven is suffering loss because 
many teachers and preachers spend much very precious 
time grubbing, that would be much more profitably 
spent plowing. Perhaps I should make myself plain as 
to the stumps in our spiritual soil. Momentous ques- 
tions about Christianity have been about as persistent 
as the stumps of great pine trees of past days. They 
have survived through centuries of time. Enormous 
crops of souls might be harvested for our Lord if we 
would just plow. 

With the family altar largely broken down, a thing 
of the past, with the home readings and family medi- 
tations supplanted by the daily paper, the magazine, 
and books of fiction, and with the very short time for 
Bible study in the Church School, consider the exceed- 
ing preciousness of the time, and how much of it is sac- 
rified in this way. I seldom visit a class, when I am not 
distressed by the time spent in wrestling with questions, 
not only wholly irrelevant to the subject, but in no 
way vital to our salvation. 

As pastors and ministers we are speaking to audi- 
ences of higher average intelligence, perhaps, than ever 
before. The knowledge acquired by pupils of the 
grade schools under our present cramming educational 
system is amazing. Plus the large percentage of high- 
school students, are not a few college graduates. One 
of these educated young men, writing in the Christian 
Herald, recently, has given us some things to think 
about, to which we dare not turn a deaf ear; likewise 
Mr. Frank Crane, that prince among American writers, 
in a recent article in the American Magazine, on " Why 
I Am a Christian." 

The gist of the whole matter is, that not only is the 
world tired of listening to our apologetic preaching, but 
it probably has driven many people away from church 
services. One of our hitherto most successful evan- 
gelists said some time since that in his younger days in 
the ministry he was much more successful in convert- 
ing people than after he had worked his way through 
college. Generally that has been true. The most mas- 
terly sermons, from a scholastic point of view, have not 
converted the people. 

The underlying thought is, that the higher educated 
the ministry, the more apologetic it becomes, and the 
less positive it speaks. The following will illustrate : 
" Except ye all likewise repent [in a measure], and be 
baptized [in a way], ye shall all likewise perish " (in a 
measure). The world is interested in and wants to 
hear what we have to say from the heart. This is no 
argument against an educated ministry ; we must have 
that. 

Teachers and preachers spend a large amount of 
valuable time arguing the authenticity of the miracles of 
Jesus, the divinity of Jesus, the inspiration of the Bible, 
etc. Why argue? Why not assume their truth, and 
preach it? " Never man spake like this man." Is not 
the great compelling fact about Jesus, not what he did, 
nor even so much what he said, as wliat he was, and 
eternally is? As Mr. Crane well says, "The miracles 
of Jesus, and the divinity of Jesus don't bother me. 



I believe in him because of what he was." Was not 
Jesus himself infinitely greater than any miracle he 
ever wrought? If these things are true, let's preach 
Jesus as he way and is. Any adequate conception of 
God, and of Jesus Christ, will make belief in the great 
mooted questions of the Bible easy. Can we visualize 
Jesus? He was more conscious of the Father than of 
himself; more conscious of eternity than of time; so 
spiritual and yet so practical; so just and yet so com- 
passionate ; so lionlike and yet the Prince of Peace ; so 
solitary, and yet so comradelike. 

Paul argued Christianity at Athens, but didn't con- 
vert any one. At Corinth he said : " I am determined 
to know nothing among you but Jesus Christ and 
him crucified." This is very suggestive. They tell me 
that the very persistent old pine stumps of the South- 
land have a real commercial value for turpentine. Per- 
haps they have. Perhaps, too, the great troublesome 
questions that have clung to Christianity for all these 
centuries have their value. But until faith becomes 
sight, until we cease to see through a glass darkly, and 
until all mystery shall vanish away, lefs preach Jesus. 
Let us quit grubbing stumps and plow. Let's go. 

Girard, III. . » , 

A Pageant of God 

BY H. A. BRANDT 
Fifth of Seven Studies in an Argument with God 

The second time that the prophet Habakkuk pro- 
pounds his questions Jehovah answers with a message 
written so large " that he may run that readeth it." 
For, five times Jehovah sounded the doom of preda- 
tory nations of the Chaldean type. Woe to the nations 
that pursue a policy of ruthless conquest ! For in the 
end they shall be overwhelmed by an alliance of the 
many that they have turned against them. Woe to the 
conquering nation whose regimen is calculated to give 
the victor his ease! For, while the victor grows phy- 
sically soft and mentally indolent, the vanquished re- 
cover their strength. Woe to the nations that build their 
cities with blood! For the city of blood is a city of 
satiety and disillusionment. Woe to the nation that 
corrupts a neighbor ! For, inasmuch as a victor de- 
bauches another, he casts himself into a deeper pit. 
Woe to the nation whose gods are the wooden idols of 
pride and covetousness ! For both of these idols are 
doomed to fall, and with their makers sink into the 
dust. 

If this is the end in store for the mighty Chaldeans, 
who, then, shall live? The proud and treacherous man 
shall surely fall, " but the righteous shall live by his 
faith." 

At the end of the second message of Jehovah the 
controversy between the prophet Habakkuk and his 
God is definitely closed. Twice_ihe prophet has stood 
and propounded his questions, and as many times Je- 
hovah has answered. And in it all the doom of the 
Chaldeans and their gods has been written large, " But 
Jehovah is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep 
silence before him." For after doubt, questions, con- 
troversy, and revelation, comes a vision of God as he 
really is. 

Therefore, look in imagination at the tower of 
Habakkuk. Look at the faces of the notables grouped 
on the tower with the prophet. The fashion of their 
countenances is changed. They appear as men who 
have looked upon the wonders and works of God. And 
where is the eloquence of Job ? The questions he asked 
in the days of his misery put him in the company w;th 
Habakkuk. But now the ancient philosopher is dumb 
under the challenge of Jehovah, except to confess : 

"Wherefore I abhor myself, 
And repent in dust and ashes." 

Likewise, the rest of the company seem overwhelmed 
by the spell produced by all that they have seen and 
heard. But the end is not yet. The ominous silence is 
broken by the voice of one at prayer. It is the voice of 
the prophet Habakkuk who, at the first, had thought to 
confound his God. Behold the face of the prophet is 
towards the south and his eyes are fixed upon the 
purple horizons of the land of Israel's most profound 
experiences with her God. Even as the prophet looks 
he prays : 



"0 Jehovah, I have heard the report of thee, and am 
afraid : 
O Jehovah, revive thy work in the midst of the years; 
In the midst of the years make it known; 
In wrath remember mercy." 

As the voice of the prophet ceases there is a sudden 
splendor across the southern sky. Its approach is 
swifter than the speeding storm, for in a moment of 
time the heavens are covered with the glory of God. 
It is the vision of the prophet Habakkuk, and the vision 
is a veritable pageant of God. 
" God came from Teman, 

And the Holy One from mount Paran. 

His glory covered the heavens. 

And the earth was full of his praise. 

His brightness was as the light; 

He had rays coming forth from his hand; 

And there was hiding of his power. 

Before him went fhe pestilence, 

And fiery bolts went forth at his feet. 

He stood and measured the earth; 

He beheld and drove asunder the nations; 

And the eternal mountains were scattered; 

The evPrlasting hills did bow; 

His goings were as of oU. 

***** 

The sun and the moon stood still in their habitation. 

At the light of thine arrows as they went, 

At the shining of thy glittering spear," 

The record of the prophet's vision of the pageant of 
a triumphant God is cast in the form of a brief, yet 
majestic ode. In his times Isaiah had seen a glory of 
God that filled the temple, but the glory that Habakkuk 
saw " covered the heavens." The psalmist had, on oc- 
casions, commemorated the ancient and loving care of 
Jehovah toward his people, but, somehow, it remained 
for the prophet Habakkuk to rise from the concept of 
God, as defined by national aspirations, to a view of 
Jehovah as the great and mighty One whose plans com- 
prehend the destinies of all the nations. In the large 
view the Chaldeans, as well as the people of Judah, 
have a definite place in the plans of God. Even as Je- 
hovah said : " Behold ye among the nations, and look, 
and wonder marvelously ; for I am working a wor^k in 
your days, which you will not believe though it be told 
you." 

Isaiah vividly portrays the incomparable greatness 
of Jehovah in his masterful contrast of the mighty God 
and the idols that men make. And in his wonderful 
word picture he might also have written this sentence 
from Habakkuk: 

"Thou didst march through the land in indignation; 
Thou didst thresh the nations in anger." 

But could Isaiah have written the next sentence? Per- 
haps, for he was a prophet of surpassing vision. But 
in any case one can not help but be glad for that 
sentence from the record of the vision of Habakkuk 
which suggests the philosophy underlying the long 
course of God's dealings with mankind: 

"Thou wentest forth for the salvation of thy people. 
For the salvation of thine anointed." 

The pageant of God would have been a barren tri- 
umph, indeed, if somewhere the fact had not been 
disclosed that through all the ages Jehovah has beck- 
oned to men of faith. The proud and covetous man is 
doomed with these two fatal flaws in his heart, " but 
the righteous shall live in his faithfulness." 

La Verne, Calif. 



The Vision and the Task 

** BY LUCILE GIBSON 
" A vision without a task makes a visionary ; a task with- 
out a vision makes a drudge." 

For years you and I have heard that appealing cry 
of " Come over into Macedonia and help us." We have 
looked into the faces of millions of starving people — 
starving for the love of the Christ, who died to save 
them. We have studied facts and figures. We have 
wept when we heard the impassioned pleas of those who 
had actually seen the need of the heathen world. We 
have read our Bibles with a searchlight thrown upon 
the words : " Go ye therefore, and make disciples of 
all nations." Some of us have said, " That doesn't 
mean me." Others of us have believed it to be God's 

(Continued on Page 2S) 



20 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



An Ideal Day 

BY J NO. S. FLOliV 

Ideal days do not come into the experience of most 
of us very often, it may be. There are so many things 
to keep the flays from being ideal. Worries and disap- 
pointments and accidents and unexpected happenings 
turn all our plans topsy-turvy. Then we fret and 
worry and are disappointed and become sulky and 
moody. The fact is, instead of managing our affairs 
and making the best of them, our affairs manage us ; 
and we permit ourselves to become -the victims of cir- 
cumstances. 

But it is not necessary that things should go this way. 
The human pair was created as the crowning act of cre- 
ation, and they were given dominion over the things of 
earth. We seem to have lost our position of authority 
and prestige. Things are not intended to be our mas- 
ters ; but somehow, in the hurry and worry and bustle 
and confusion of our complex modern life, the order 
has been reversed. " Things are in the saddle and ride 
mankind." Under these circumstances it is difficult for 
us often to feel that we have come to the end of a per- 
fect day. 

In the light of these things (and the experience of 
most of us is not far different), it is refreshing to turn 
to the example of Jesus and see how he managed things 
and affairs of this world. Fortunately Mark has given 
us, in the first chapter of his Gospel, a graphic account 
of how Jesus spent one day. The activities begin with 
the early morning and are continued until the early 
morning .of the next day. Let us think through the 
events and see if we can in some sense live through 
these twenty-four hours with the Master. 

The day begins with a visit to the synagogue. Here 
the usual services are engaged in. A portion of Scrip- 
ture from the prophets, the psalms or the law is read 
with interpretations and comments upon it. Then fol- 
low prayers to the great God and Father of us all. 
Short intervals of silent meditation make the service a 
real spiritual communion with the Father. 

The morning devotions over, Jesus and his party are 
ready to leave the synagogue. But the eye of the Mas- 
ter is attracted to trfe needy condition of one of the 
morning worshipers — a man with an unclean spirit. 
Jesus at once addresses himself to the task of freeing 
this burdened soul. It is a case of extreme demon pos- 
session, but Jesus rids the man of his malady and sends 
him home rejoicing. 

A short walk through the streets of Capernaum 
brings the Master and his followers to the house of 
Peter. Here they find Peter's mother-in-law suffering 
from a severe fever. Jesus, approaching the sick bed, 
takes the patient by the hand, raises her up and restores 
her to her family well and sound. She goes at once 
about her household duties and prepares the noonday 
meal for her honored guests. 

The news of this remarkable healing soon becomes 
noised about the streets. It spreads rapidly from mouth 
to mouth and becomes the all-absorbing matter of con- 
versation. Curiosity arises about the wonderful Physi- 
cian who has wrought this marvelous cure in the house 
of Peter. 

There are many other sick persons in Capernaum, 
people suffering from all manner of diseases. So, as 
the day wears into the afternoon, strange sights begin 
to appear in the streets of the city. Invalids, borne on 
litters, make their silent way in the direction of Peter's 
house. Others, less decrepit, are led along the street in 
slow procession. Still others, possessed with demons, 
and afflicted children, come from every quarter. Such 
a throng has assembled in the street that Mark graph- 
ically observes, " And all the city was gathered to- 
gether at the door." 

Jesus comes forth from the house and lays his hands 
of healing upon them. Here an evil spirit is driven 
out ; yonder a paralytic is restored to health ; the palsied 
are made well, lepers are cleansed, blind eyes are opened, 
and dumb tongues made to speak. The afternoon and 
evening are spent by the Master in giving relief to the 
suffering multitudes and bringing joy and blessing into 
their lives. 

Under cover of the darkness the crowd gradually 
melts away and Jesus returns to the house for rest and 
refreshment. After a busy day of such loving service 



it is not difficult to believe that rest was sweet and re- 
freshing. But on the morrow, a great while before day, 
Jesus arose quietly and went out through the streets 
into a secluded place, to have a period of communion 
with the Father. When the disciples and others later 
arose, the street was again filled with anxious people, 
desiring the healing hand of the Great Physician. 

But Jesus could not give his entire attention to one 
group. He could not be selfish ; he could not be 
sectional ; he could not be provincial. His mission was 
to all mankind. Therefore, his instruction was to go on 
to the next town, that he might minister to their needs 
also. His thought was ever on service and the distri- 
bution of his service in such a way that he might do the 
greatest good to the greatest number of people. 

This is a sort of cross-section in the life of the Mas- 
ter. Day and night, with scarcely enough time taken 
for meals and rest, Jesus' life was given to healing, 
teaching, and blessing the lives of men and women. 
What are some of the outstanding facts to be gleaned 
from Christ's example? 

" We can not help noting the graceful ease and sim- 
plicity with which Jesus moved calmly from one activi- 
ty to another. It is just the natural expression of his 
character to pass from service to service in a quiet, easy 
manner. This is the tone of his life, the spirit in which 
he ministered. 

There is no ostentation in his work and service ; no 
demonstration, no excitment, no flurry or pretense. All 
is calm, dignified, noble, reverent. There is no display, 
no show. The one great purpose is to relieve suffering 
and comfort aching hearts. 

The appeal to the multitude is no less characteristic. 
There is no loud demonstration here, no boisterous ap- 
plause ; but a quiet dignity and reverence pervades 
everything. The people were evidently thankful from 
the bottom of their hearts for the blessings wrought in 
their lives. But their thanks are expressed in grateful 
appreciation and in a deep sense of obligation to the 
One who has so richly ministered to their needs. 

Even Jesus, the Son of God, performed these won- 
derful works of mercy and love in the spirit of deep 
humility to his Father. In all of his busy life he was 
accustomed to go frequently to " a desert place apart," 
where he could have free and sweet communion with 
his Father in the spirit. It was in these seasons of fel- 
lowship and communion that he replenished his spirit- 
ual powers and provided that fund of blessing from 
which he so constantly drew. 

If we can enter into the spirit of the Master's service, 
and imbibe something 'of the simplicity, and at the 
same time the calm and reverent dignity in which he 
served, we may be able to catch a glimpse of the divine 
nature and feel something of that peace of the spirit 
that passeth all understanding. In the complex and 
anxious life of today how much do all of us need this 
beautiful example of the Master! 

Bridgewater, Va. 



the. first of any serious consequence during his long con- 
nection with the Publishing House. 

He quoted the well-known passage of the Psalms, 
"When I was afflicted, then I thought of the Lord," and 
went on to say, " I have been trying to think of the pur- 
pose of my affliction. While I lie here I have been think- 
ing over my past life, and so far as I know 1 have violated 
no physical law, nor transgressed any moral law, yet I 
am willing to abide by the Lord's visitation. He doubt- 
less has a purpose in it all for me." When we parted, 
he exclaimed, while his hand lingered in our clasp, "Your 
visit has been like a ray of sunshine on an otherwise 
dreary day. " 

Perhaps Bro. Plate's services to the Publishing House 
and to the Brotherhood are not appreciated by many 
without the immediate circles of the House. He came 
to the "Brethren at Work" office at Lanark when but a 
young man. By diligence and thoroughness, charac- 
teristic of his German nationality, he mastered the details 
of the printing business and made himself invaluable 
during those early days of struggle and work of the 
publication field within our church. He removed with 
the "Brethren at Work" office to Mount Morris, saw the 
publication changed to the " Gospel Messenger," and re- 
moved with the House to Elgin in 1899. He was able to 
see in his lifetime, and have a part in the transforma- 
tion, a poorly-printed paper and a meager ly-equipped 
office, develop into a well-printed journal, printed in an 
establishment equipped with the best of modern ma- 
chinery. 

In later years Bro. Plate's work as assistant editor of 
the " Gospel Messenger," with his well-written page, 
"Around the World," is too well known to need any 
comment. 

He had many friends throughout the Brotherhood, 
both by personal acquaintance and by correspondence. 
He seldom took a vacation, and, if he had any fault, it 
was a too close application to his work. In his home 
church and Sunday-school he was always at his post, 
for years teaching a Sunday-school class, having an in- 
teresting method of arousing discussions. He served the 
church for many years in the office of deacon. In his 
passing the Brotherhood has lost a faithful servant, and 
one who labored incessantly in behalf of her publishing 
interests. 

Time of necessity brings changes. With Bro. Plate's 
departure a change occurs in the way our memory serves 
us of the Publishing House. For many years the House 
and Bro. Plate have seemed synonymous. Now the link 
is broken. While the work will go on, even though a 
worker drops from the ranks, the old associations change 
with the passing. So it seems as we write of Bro. Plate's 
call to the Beyond. 

Mt. Morris, 111., Jan. 1, 1924. 



In Appreciation 

BY A. H. RITTENHOUSE 

The news of Bro. L. A. Plate's death brought to the 
writer a sense of personal loss, for my acquaintance with 
him dates back to twenty-five years ago, when, a mere 
lad, I came from my home in Pennsylvania to the 
Brethren Publishing House at Mount Morris, to work 
under him in the composing room. I shall not forget his 
interest in me, a young man away from home. The first 
Sunday of my stay in Mount Morris he invited me to 
his home, to partake of his hospitality and friendly social 
intercourse. This phase of Bro. Plate's character is well 
known by many who came in contact with him. 

It was, then, with a feeling of regret that we learned 
from his daughter. Miss Nellie, of his serious illness and 
his confinement at the hospital when we visited Elgin 
on the Friday preceding his death. It will always remain 
a satisfactory memory with us that we were able to spend 
a few minutes with him before he passed away. 

The old friendly feeling was in his handclasp, despite 
his apparent weakness and decline in physical vigor, 
and the invariable friendly invitation was extended that, 
when he got out of the hospital, we must come over 
some time and visit him at his home. For he felt hope- 
ful over the prospect of his again getting back to his 
work. 

He was able to converse quite easily of the associa- 
tions of the days gone by, and commented on his illness, 



CORRESPONDENCE 



THE 200th ANNIVERSARY AT THE OLD MOTHER 
CHURCH 

Sunday, Dec. 23, 1923, was a memorable day in the 
Mother Church, Germantown,- Pa. It was the day on 
which the congregation celebrated the bicentennial of 
the first baptism and organization of the Church of the 
Brethren in America. The day was wet and disagreeable, 
but notwithstanding this the church was filled, both morn- 
ing and evening. 

At ten o'clock the Sunday-school was in session, 330 
being in attendance, which was not the largest attendance 
of the school by any means. At eleven o'clock Bro. M. G. 
Brumbaugh gave the history of "The Beginning of the 
Church in America." In the after*hoon four of the neigh- 
boring pastors brought messages of greeting and words 
of encouragement. Many events of interest were men- 
tioned in these remarks. In the evening at six o'clock 
there was a combined meeting of the juniors, the young 
people, and the Christian Workers Meeting. Dr. Adam 
Geibel, the blind composer and musician, gave the address 
to the audience on " The Meaning of Christmas to the 
World." At eight o'clock the house was again filled. 
The Bethany church choir rendered three splendid 
choruses during these services, which were greatly ap- 
preciated. Bro. J. S. Noffsinger, of Brooklyn, N. Y., then 
spoke on "Our Present Task"; later, Bro. C. C. Ellis, of 
Juniata College, on "What of the Future?" All these 
addresses of the day we have ready to print, provided 
there are orders sufficient to justify the printing. 

On Christmas Day, the real day and date of the first 
baptisms, was held a love feast, beginning at six o'clock. 
It was, indeed, a wonderful feast. The pastor of the 
church officiated, assisted by six other ministers present. 
One hundred and fifty-three communicants participated 
in this feast, representing twelve congregations and three 
States. The names of these 153 persons were secured, 
and will go down in a book and become a record and a 
part of the archives of Juniata College. Letters of greet- 
ing were received from a number of our own congrega- 
tions over the Brotherhood, as well as from other denom- 
inations in our city. 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



21 



We have requests for copies of the addresses given 
on this occasion. We had them taken stenographically, 
and if there are sufficient requests wc will put the en- 
tire proceedings of this Two-hundredth Anniversary with 
the addresses in pamphlet form, and sell at a price to 
cover cost only.. We have an order from a church in 
Michigan for one hundred copies, that they may give to 
their members, thus acquainting them the better with 
the beginning of our church, and also with this anni- 
versary. 

Should there be other congregations or individuals 
wanting these addresses in this form, and the proceed- 
ings of the anniversary, notify me at once, as it will de- 
termine whether or not we shall prepare the pamphlet. 

M. C. Swigart. 

6611 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. Pa. 




Our Forward Movement 



Edited by J. W. Lear 

:r.il Director of the Council of Pre 




CONFERENCE FOR RURAL CHURCH LEADERS 

Bethany Bible School, Jan. 31-Feb. S 

Thursday, January 31. 

9:00-10:00, Selected Chapter Studies— A. C. Wieand. 10: 
00-11:00, The Church.— J. W. Lear. 11:00-12:00, Chapel. 
1:00-2:00, Studying the Parish.— H. L. Hartsough. 2: 
00-3 : 00, The Need for Religious Education : Its Defini- 
tion, Its Aim, Its Progress.— Ezra Flory. 3:00-4:00, 
Rural Sociology. — J. Hugh Heckman. 6:30-7:30, Open 
Forum, conducted by J. W. Lear. 8:00-9:00, Lecture — 
Rev. John Hewitt, Garrett Biblical Institute. 

Friday, February 1. 
9:00-10:00, Selected Chapter Studies.— A C. Wieand. 10: 
00-11:00, The Program' of the Church— J. W. Lear. 11: 
00-12 : 00, Chapel. 1 : 00-2 : 00, Training and Utilizing the 
Lay Forces.— H. L Hartsough. 2 : 00-3 : 00, Religious Ed- 
ucation in the Home. — Ezra Flory. 3:00-4:00, Rural So- 
ciology. — J. Hugh Heckman. 6:30-7:30, Open Forum, 
conducted by J. W. Lear. 8 : 00-9 : 00, Lecture (to be sup- 
plied). 

Saturday, February 2. 
9:00-10:00, Selected Chapter Studies.— A. C. Wieand. 
10:00-11:00, The Man and the Message.— J. W. Lear. 
11:00-12:00, Chapel. 1:00-2:00, Church Publicity.— H. 
L. Hartsough. 2:00-3:00, The Church School a Factor 
in Religious Education.— Ezra Flory. 3:00-4:00, Church 
Music. — Cora Stahly. 6 : 30-7 : 30, Open Forum, conducted 
by J. W. Lear. 8 : 00-9 : 00, Musical Program— Bethany 
Bible School. 

Sunday, February 3. 
10:00-11:00, Sunday School. 11:00-12:00, Sermon. 8: 
00-9:00, Sermon. 

Monday, February 4. 
9:00-10:00, Selected Chapter Studies.— A. C. Wieand. 10: 
00-11:00, The Significance of the Sermon. — J. W. Lear. 
11:00-12:00, Chapel. 1:00-2:00, Types of Evangelism: 
Their Success.— A. P. Blough. 2 : 00-3 : 00, The Community 
Program in Religious Education; The Training School. — 
Ezra Flory. 3:00-4:00, Program of the Ministerial 
Board. — David Metzler. 6:30-7:30, Open Forum, con- 
ducted by A. P. Blough. 8:00-9:00, Lecture.— David 
Metzler. 

Tuesday, February 5. 
9:00-10:00, Selected Chapter Studies.— A. C. Wieand. 
10:00-11:00, The Character of the Sermon.— J. W. Lear. 
11:00-12:00, Chapel. 1:00-2:00, Financing the Church. 
—A. P. Blough. 2:00-3:00, Utilizing the Young Peo- 
ple's Organization in Religious Education. — C. H. Sham- 
berger. 3:00-4: 00, Missions— C. D. Bonsack. 6:30-7:30, 
Open Forum, conducted by A. P. Blough. 8:00-9:00, 
Lecture. — C. D. Bonsack. 

Wednesday, February 6. 
9:00-10:00, Selected Chapter Studies.— A. C. Wieand. 
10:00-11:00. The Delivery of the Sermon.— J. W. Lear. 
1 1 : 00-12 : 00. Chapel. 1 : 00-2 : 00, Church Organization.— 
A. P. Blough. 2 :00-3 : 00, Methods in Missionary Educa- 
tion. — H. Spenser Minnich. 3:00-4:00, Missions. — C. D. 
Bonsack. 6:30-7:30, Open Forum, conducted by A. P. 
Blough. 8:00-9:00, Lecture.— J. S. NofFsinger. 

Thursday, February 7. 
9:00-10:00, Selected Chapter Studies— A. C. Wieand. 
10 : 00-11 : 00, The Value of Worship.— J. W. Lear.- 11 : 00- 
12:00, Chapel. 1:00-2:00, Church Organization.— A. P. 
Blough. 2:00-3:00, The Church College an Integral 
Part of a Program of Religious Education. — J. S. Noff- 
singer. 3:00-4:00, Musical Program for the Country 
Church. — Cora Stahly. 6:30-7:30, Open Forum, con- 
ducted by A. P. Blough. 8 : 00-9 : 00— Lecture, J. W. 
Lear. 

Friday, February 8. 
8:00-9:00, Selected Chapter Studies— A. C. Wieand. 10: 
00-11:00, Shepherding the Flock— J. W. Lear. 11:00- 
12:00, Chapel. 1:00-2:00, The Church Ministering to 
the Community Through Its Social Life. — A. P. Blough. 
2:00-3:00 (to be supplied). 3:00-4:00 (to be supplied). 
6:30-7:30, Open Forum, conducted by A. P. Blough. 
8:00-9:00, Lecturc,-The Church of the Brethren.— H. C. 
Early. 



The Job of a Man 

It isn't the work we intend to do, 
Nor the work we've just begun, 

That puts us right on the ledger sheet ; 
It's the work we've really done. 

Our credit is built on the work we do, 
Our debit on things we shirk ; 

The man who totals the biggest plus 
Is the one who completes his work. 

Good intentions do not pay bills, 

It's easy enough to plan ; 
To wish is the play of an office-boy, 

To do is the job of a man. 

—System. 



The Every-Member Canvass 

It would be a splendid plan if the local church, the 
Districts and the general organizations could agree up- 
on a financial fiscal year. 

The Mission Board and the Publishing House have 
March 1 to Feb. 28 as their fiscal year, and I am won- 
dering what would hinder local congregations from 
conforming thereto. 

As it now stands, local congregations have various 
dates, and write in at various times inquiring as to the 
apportionment to be placed in the budgets. If all had 
the same date, the office here would know just when to 
send out the statements. In fact, they would all be 
' sent at once. We surely need more unanimity, both 
in spirit and in letter. 

No doubt most churches are now planning their budg- 
ets, or have done so. This has been done with prayer- 
ful concern, having in mind not only the amount neces- 
sary to mere church existence, but for church expan- 
sion as well. 

The church, of course, will want to scrutinize every 
item in the budget, not with a miserly disposition, but 
with a willingness to invest money in the affairs of the 
Kingdom of God ; always, however, with a concern 
that begets and fosters a balanced church program. 

Now the Every-Member Canvass to provide the 
funds for the budget is to be made. And this is a mat- 
ter that needs careful attention. There is no easy road 
to success in any worthy adventure. Neither is there 
any magic in the term " Every-Member Canvass " that 
will cause money to roll into the treasury of the Lord. 
The success of the enterprise depends upon " business- 
like and prayerful attention to all details." 

The power to acquire money is a gift from God, we 
are all willing to admit The willingness to give money 
is also a gift from God. But it seems to require more 
grace and cultivation to exercise the latter gift than the 
former. Maybe not, either, for we have had so much 
more education on making than on spending and giving. 

Well, we know what the Every-Member Canvass is, 
and we are convinced that if there is a blessing to the 
giver in bestowing his gifts, only when properly mo- 
tivated, and in proportion to their liberality, how to con- 
duct the canvass is of very vital importance. It should 
be prefaced with Prayer. 

Prayer helps to put over many a worthy enterprise. 
Very little is really accomplished without it. Several 
weeks in advance of the canvass, prayer should be 
stressed^ and engaged in from the pulpit and at the 
prayer meetings of the church. A deep concern can 
thus be engendered in the membership. 

Pray that the church may receive a passion born of 
love for the Master and his cause, and a spiritual pow- 
er that will move every member of the church to action. 

Pray for an overcoming and overwhelming faith that 
can remove mountains of fear, doubt, covetousness, in- 
difference, etc., and that will produce light and under- 
standing in the performance of God's will in reference 
to this special task. 

Pray that a spirit of sacrifice may permeate and grip 
every member, so that not only will the churches' 
c::otT !•? nised, but that the whole number may receive 
the outpouring of the Spirit of God. 



The canvass should be preceded by certain Prepara- 
tion. 

Literature on stewardship of life and property should 
be wisely and adequately distributed. The pulpit should 
stress the importance and responsibility of faithful 
trusteeship. 

Sufficient pledge cards should be provided and the 
correct names and addresses of all members of the con- 
gregation should be obtainable. 

The items in the budget should be thoroughly un- 
derstood by all who are expected to make the canvass, 
and in order to do this several meetings of canvassers 
should be in charge of the Finance Committee, where 
prayer and instruction may be engaged in. 

Of course, the congregation should have had a whole 
year of training through sermons, study classes, special 
programs in Christian Workers, etc. 

A copy of the budget might be sent to every home 
two weeks in advance, along with helpful tracts and 
literature on some phases of stewardship. 

The Presentation of the canvass is also very im- 
portant and requires Christian tact. 

Set a date for the canvass. 

Divide territory into convenient groups. 

Solicitors should not argue, but they should educate 
and pray. 

Encourage every member to make a subscription, 
however small, but after impressing the importance of 
the work and tile joy that always follows right giving. 

If all are not seen on the day set for the canvass, 
look them up later. Announce publicly the date and 
time of the canvass. 

Set a time after the canvass is over to meet in public 
assembly for a general thanksgiving service and prayer 
for willingness on our part and blessing from God, in 
order that our pledges may he fully realized. 



Let Us Be Frank 



I have been informed by some of my good brethren 
that there are, here and there, those who are opposed 
to the Forward Movement in our church. I am very 
much interested in these statements, for if there is a 
better plan of carrying on the Gospel extension work 
of our denomination it is a real loss that that way is 
not known and given the widest publicity. On the 
other hand, if the church has adopted the very best 
plan of carrying forward this work that is now known 
to the church, and there are some here and there who 
are throwing obstacles in front of the machinery, in 
the hope of crippling the work, probably something 
ought to be done to safeguard the affairs of the church 
against inadvertent or willful mischief, whichever sort 
it happens to be. 

This, then, is a request that whosoever finds him- 
self partially or wholly adverse to the Forward Move- 
ment, put up his objections, along with what he con- 
siders a better plan of carrying on the extension of the 
Kingdom of God, in an article in as clear and concise a 
manner as possible, and send it to the office. 

Remember, of course, that this department deals with 
methods of promotion, and not with matters of doc- 
' trine. Doctrinal issfles must be worked out in some 
other department. This department is dealing with the 
best methods of harnessing the spiritual resources of 
the church and making them work for the growth of 
the Kingdom. 

We are studying this matter of organization and pro- 
gram with a desire to make it as economical and as effi- 
cient as possible. Please don't fail us. If you have 
something good, send it on. I believe I will give a bit 
more liberty. If you have nothing but objections, send 
them in. We will study them and profit if possible, 
All together for a better and bigger church ! 



"Were the whole realm of nature mine, 
That were a present far too small: 
Love so amazing, so divine. 
Demands my soul, my life, my all." 



22 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



THE ROUND TABLE 



Back to Christ 

BY JULIA GRAYD0N 

While away on my vacation last summer I heard a 
minister preach from this text: " I am not ashamed of 
the Gospel of Christ." 

His plea was, " Back to Christ and to the Ten Com- 
mandments." 

Among other things he said : " The world will not be 
saved by philosophy or politics or a new religion. Let 
there be less blathering of ' new thought ' and more of 
the power of Christ in individual lives." 

" Back to Christ and the Ten Commandments," the 
Old and the New Testaments standing together, and 
how true the words : 

"The Old is in the New contained, 
The New is by the Old sustained." 

The Christ of the Bible, the Christ of History and 
the Christ of the Ten Commandments. 

What part had Jesus in the Ten Commandments? 
Listen to his words in Matthew, the nineteenth chapter 
and seventeenth verse, in answer to the one who asked 
for eternal life: " If thou wilt enter into life, keep the 
commandments." 

Many are trying hard to break down the law of the 
commandments, to make life a little easier, but they do 
not know Christ as he is revealed to his followers in the 
Bible, and to them we must say, " Back to Christ and to 
the Ten Commandments." 

Harrisburg, Pa. 

. » ■ 

Resolutions for the New Year 

BY FLORIDA J. E. GREEN 

Another year has gone and we have entered upon 
another new one. As we look back we can see where 
we have failed in doing many things which we might 
have done — opportunities that will never come again. 
Now, as we enter in upon another new year, and set 
forth resolutions, let us put them into execution. It is 
easy to make them, but the most necessary and im- 
portant thing is to carry them out by work. As the 
work becomes greater each year, more responsibilities 
are resting upon us. We see the need of missions at 
home and abroad, so we must be up and doing if we 
expect to accomplish anything. The Lord wants no 
idlers in his vineyard. He wants no drones. He wants 
a live wire. Each year brings about a greater obliga- 
tion upon each one who is in his vineyard, and more 
is required, as we hear the cry, " Come over into Mace- 
donia and help us." More help is needed each year, as 
the work is spreading more and more over the con- 
tinents. That means help from all who are able to 
help. Give cheerfully and with a willing mind. All 
can not go, but they can have the opportunity of giving 
of their means as the Lord prospers them, and sending 
their offering accompanied by prayer. The Lord will 
help the cheerful giver. 

May this new year be one of the most successful 
years for the Lord, and may much good be accom- 
plished for the upbuilding of his cause. 
• Middletown. hid. 



Worldliness 



BY EZRA FLORY 

Some time ago we wrote an article on the subject of 
worldliness, asserting that it is a spirit, and that world- 
liness lies in the soul, and not in material things. This 
is positively true. Worldliness is not primarily in 
theater-going, for example; it is first in the soul. It 
expresses and manifests itself in outward objectives 
and in concrete forms. 

How often we have heard sermons on this subject! 
How often, too, have we heard arguments which as- 
sailed certain forms of alleged worldliness that ap- 
pealed to us as " clubbing " rather than effectual teach- 
ing! A certain denomination was cited as being cer- 
tainly worldly, and another as being unworldly or 
other-worldly. One engagement was termed worldly 
and another not so. 

The spiritual life of the Christian is exposed to 



more than one form of attack. Jesus told his listeners 
that they who would live the Beatitudes would get as- 
sailments from the world. But a far more subtle 
danger threatened them from another source, which is 
but another form of world entanglement. It may come 
from an effort to silence by crushing, by ridicule, or by 
force. But the world may also assume a form of 
friendliness ; it may approve and reward the doings of 
religious people, leading them to look there for com- 
mendation, when they should look primarily to a higher 
source. This form of worldliness leaves the professors ' 
robbed of true character until only* the semblance of 
piety remains. 

It was against this subtle and fatal form that the 
Lord uttered his words of warning : " Take heed that 
ye do not your righteousness to be seen of men." He 
gave three examples which are very inclusive and which 
were easily understood by those to whom the words 
were spoken. There were those who were quick to 
know if other men saw the alms they gave. They stood 
at the busy corners of the streets, to be long in prayers, 
that men might see them engage in. They covered their 
faces with ashes that they might appear unto men to 
fast. Thus three of the forms of devotion, most sacred, 
had been debased to a mere performance until the best 
that could be said was, that " they had received their re- 
ward," and certainly would receive no higher reward. 

The world had usurped in these lives the place that 
belonged to God, and their pretense of religion was 
worse than valueless. 

In the following chapters of the first Gospel the Lord 
warned his disciples against other foes of the spiritual 
life. One of these depressing forms is that of care. 
No fewer than four times the phrase, "Be not anxious," 
occurs. Here are warnings against what the flesh may 
do. Is it not right to provide food and clothing? -But 
in undue anxiety about these things the soul strives 
dauntingly for the lesser, when it should put first 
things first, with the assurance that all these necessary 
things will be added over and above. 

But there is still another worldly danger. It is that 
of uncharitableness. We are not to judge censorious- 
ly. This does not mean that we should not exercise 
judicious discrimination. One of the most conspicuous 
faults of the religious temper is that of seeing the 
worst, and suspecting it. Why is it that there is such 
a tendency to find the soul of evil even in the good? 
At this point the Lord is compelled to take sides with 
the world and to agree with its verdict. He points to. 
its danger and most earnestly warns against it. 

We have but to meditate over the words of the 
Master, to discover the lurkings of worldliness. He 
earnestly warns his disciples. 

Elgin, III. ^ 

Name of the Good Samaritan 
selected by wealthy a. burkholder 

There are many to whom the pleasure of doing a 
generous deed is a sufficient reward. This is well. 
There will be no lack of little deeds of kindness as long 
as " it is more blessed to give than to receive." And 
where this is true, the little deeds of kindness may come 
to resemble the little grains of sand in their number as 
well as in their unobtrusiveness. All that we can do 
to foster the spirit that tends to this end is work well 
done. 

Oberlin, the well known philanthropist of Steinthal, 
while yet a candidate for the ministry was traveling on 
one occasion from Strassburg. It was in the winter 
time. The ground was deeply covered with snow, and 
the roads were almost impassable. He had reached the 
middle of his journey and was among the mountains, 
but was so exhausted that he could stand up no longer. 
He was freezing to death. Sleep overcame him; all 
power to resist it left him. He commended himself to 
God, and yielded to what he felt to be the sleep of 
death. 

He knew not how long he slept, but suddenly he be- 
came conscious of some one arousing him. Before 
him stood a wagon driver in a blue blouse, and the 
wagon not far away. The driver gave him a little wine 
and food and the spirit of life returned. He then 
helped Oberlin on the wagon and brought him to the 
next village. The rescued man was profuse in his 



thanks and offered money, which his benefactor re- 
fused. 

" It is a duty to help one another," said the wagoner, 
" and it is the next thing to an insult to offer reward for 
such a service." 

" Then," replied Oberlin, "at least tell me your name, 
that I may have you in thoughtful remembrance before 
God." 

" I see," said the wagoner, " that you are a minister 
of the Gospel. Please tell me the name of the good 
Samaritan." 

" That," said Oberlin, " I can not do, for it was not 
put on record." 

" Then," replied the wagoner, " until you can tell me 
his name, permit me to withhold mine." 

Soon he had driven out of sight and Oberlin never 
saw him again. 

Is it not the principal charm of the story of the good 
Samaritan that there is no name given, no clue to any 
person, nothing by which to locate the hand that did 
the merciful deed — only the generous spirit that 
prompted it? 

If you feel moved to do an unnoticed act of kind- 
ness, do not hold back because it will be unseen. .Ask 
yourself, " What was the name of the good Samari- 
tan ?" 

Shirleysburg, Pa. 



Passwords 

BY ARCHER WALLACE 

The scores of fraternal societies which exist in our 
land have passwords which enable their members to 
gain admittance to their meetings. Unless the password 
is known no admittance is granted. One of the most 
unfortunate misconceptions of true religion is that 
there are certain tests of creed which, if one knows 
thoroughly, may qualify him for membership. The 
heart of true religion is not to be found in 
any creedal statement. There are thousands of earnest 
Christians who could not, -for their lives, define the 
great doctrines of their faith, but that they are sincere 
and devout Christiansno one can doubt for a moment. 

Rev. Dr. Jowett says in his latest book : " The secret 
of the Lord is not revealed to a mere debating society. 
The man who is merely curious is turned empty away. 
The seriousness, or the flippancy, of our questions will 
be seen in the fixed direction of our gaze." 

A good many would-be disciples who came to Jesus 
found that entering the Kingdom was a much more 
difficult thing than they had supposed. But— and this 
is the important thing — that which kept them out of the 
Kingdom was not some intellectual difficulty, but al- 
ways some moral difficulty. They loved other things 
more than Christ ; they were not willing to give up all. 

There is no password which one can mumble and 
thus gain admittance into the Kingdom of God, but 
there is one altogether indispensable qualification for 
admission. The seeker must be sincere. It is not too 
much to say that Christ gives his guaranty of peace to 
the earnest seeker. When Horace Bushnell was a 
student at college, for a period of several years he lost 
his hold on God. And then at last the light broke and 
flooded his soul. But the significant thing is that, dur- 
ing his long period of doubt and unrest, Horace Bush- 
nell lived a blameless life. His habits were clean, and 
he sought God with earnest longing. 

There is no trick or password which one has to learn 

when seeking God, but there is, always and everywhere, 

one qualification of the seeker — he must be out-and-out 

sincere. 

Toronto, Canada. 

» ♦ ■ 

Analysis of the Lord's Prayer 

BY JAS. A. SELL 

1. Filial address.—" Our Father." 

2. Adoration.—" Hallowed be thy name." 

3. Petitions. 

1. For the Divine presence.—" Thy kingdom come." 

2. For growth.— "Thy will be done." 

3. For temporal wants.—" Give us this day our daily 
bread." 

4. For pardon.—" Forgive us our sins." 

5. For protection.—" Lead us not into temptation." 

4. Ascription.— "Thine is the kingdom and the power and 
the glory," 

HolHdaysburg, Pa. 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



23 



HOME AND FAMILY 



- The Father's Task 

I must be fit for a child to play with, 
Fit for a youngster to walk away with, 

Fit for his trust and fit to be 

Ready to take him upon my knee 
Whether I win or I lose my fight, 
I must be fit for my boy at night. 

I must be fit for a child to come to, 

Speech there is that I must be dumb to, 
I must be fit for his eyes to see, 
He must find nothing of shame in me ; 

Whatever I make of myself, I must 

Square to my boy's unfaltering trust. 

I must be fit for a child to follow, 
Scorning the places where loose men wallow; 

Knowing how much he shall learn from me, 

I must be fair as I'd have him be ; 
I must come home to him, day by day, 
Clean as the morning I went away. 

I must be fit for a child's glad greeting, 
His are eyes that there is no cheating; 

He must behold me in every test. 

Not at my worst, but my very best; 
He must be proud when my life is done 
To have men know that he is my son. 

— Edgar A. Guest. 



Our Fathers and Mothers of the Dickey Church 

BY T. S. MOHERMAN 
Home Coming Services, Sept. 2, 1923, Ashland, Ohio 

To the brethren and sisters, neighbors and friends, 
assembled in special memorial services — greeting: -It 
is with a feeling of great unworthiness, yet of holy joy, 
I am permitted to join with you if\ recounting some of 
the outstanding incidents adorning the history of the 
old church that has become a sacred memory to us all. 
Not only do these come unbidden to the threshold of 
memory, but the lives of our fathers and mothers who 
made possible what we are permitted to enjoy today. 
Though dead, they yet live in the community and in the 
church structure that still stands. They are a lively 
oracle, functioning up into the higher altitudes of so- 
cial well-being. 

I wish to call your attention to three lines of special 
emphasis our parents left us as a heritage. They are 
the home, the community, and the church. These three 
combine the entire life of past generations. Their 
services come to us as mere echoes from the silent past 
in the several activities of the present. Let its sit in 
sacred silence and listen again to the sweet lullabies 
that were so lovinglysung to our fretful souls when we 
were children. 

The home — that. sacred place, the dearest place on 
earth ; perhaps two or three generations in the past, 
and a mere memory handed down by those who lived 
nearer to the original scenes than we. It speaks to us 
today in terms of great sacrifices, great perseverance, 
and great success. Around the old family hearth, 
lighted into a twilight by the once-familiar tallow dip, 
were the most sacred experiences of life, made into 
memories so that future generations might travel the 
path of true safety. The industrial spirit of those who 
first settled in the community you now occupy deserves 



tributions for the future occupants. Today you can 
look with admiration upon the home life of our com- 
munity. It is well housed ; the children are well bred and 
cultured. The Christ religion is the altar of devotion. 
The spirit of industry furnished full measures of home 
satisfactions, and- a bountiful surplus for the larger 
centers of population. Thus you see God's idea of a 
home has attained to a high degree of efficiency in this 
part of his great world garden. 

In viewing the community in its social growth, we 
start with nature in her natural beauty. Dense forests, 
rippling streams, and undulating plains stretched out 
in every direction to welcome the pioneer. They came 
like the wise men from the East to see the new-born 
community. They visited each other's huts. They 
talked of things both old and new. They broke and 
ate the bread of good fellowship together. They thanked 
God and gave gifts. Thus was started the social life 
that has become proverbial in the growth of the years 
in the high standards and ideals that govern the life of 
the community. During all the years peace and good 
will have been the golden threads that have woven 
home to home ; the home to the community, the school 
and the church. The spirit of helpfulness was a full 
measure throughout the community in clearing up 
the acres, in logrolling, house and barn raisings, the 
gathering and threshing of crops, in waiting on the sick 
and in the burial of the dead. They united in pro- 
viding schools for the young, and churches for the wor- 
shiper. In all the years no community feuds or 
schisms have been known. The earlier days of social 
wetness have been succeeded by bone dryness. Today 
community groups come together without regard to 
church affiliation, caste lines, or previous condition of 
servitude, to function the finer and more stable ele- 
ments of social life. So far as is known this com- 
munity has never furnished any cases of capital punish- 
ment, penitentiary or jail convicts. Perhaps nothing 
worse than watermelon-patch visiting, and chicken- 
coop raiding in sugar-making time is chargeable to the 
lads of bygone days. Thus it is seen that peace and 
social good will has been a full measure of blessedness 
throughout the years, and is today a beacon light to 
blaze the way into higher altitudes of social worth. 

When we speak of the church life of the community 
we engage ourselves in the more sacred elements of 
human life. It is that higher level where the super- 
natural and human meet- to strengthen faith, brighten 
hope, and make tender the ministrations of love. It is 
where the sweet incense of pure thought and tender 
emotion is offered to the Eternal God. It is where the 
highest peaks of Christian experience are scaled and 
transfigurations of life are wrought. 

It is a matter of interest to know that the element 
of church life in this community was at first an impor- 
tation. Faithful men and women in the earlier days 
came from eastern Ohio, from Pennsylvania, Maryland, 
and- Virginia, not only to seek a place to establish their 
homes, but they brought a faith and practice with them. 
It is the setting up of the altar of worship in this great 
West, as it was then known, that stirs our hearts into 
admiration and reverence toward those who brought to 
us a spiritual heritage that means so much to us of 
the present time. In the devout homes were the altars 
first kindled, and the songs of faith and redeeming love 
first sung. A churchhouse in this churchyard was built 
as early as 1854. In this edifice, though plainly built, a 



special mention. They made friends with the hostile 

Indians. They purchased their acres with a few bits of larger sphere of sp.ntual mfluence was made possible, 

wampum. They traded with them. They built huts 

and cleared the acres for domestic use. Nature yielded 

grudgingly to the self-sacrificing devotion of the new 

settlers. There were no public schools, no places of 

worship, excepting in the homes of the more devout; 

yet, out of this dearth of opportunity, there gleamed 

forth a new civilization. It reads with a sacredness 

that makes one feel he is walking on holy ground. The 

same spirit of industry and fine culture has continued 

to improve the acres and domiciles, the social and spir- 



A sister church by the Methodists, in the near-by 
Sheradden school district, joined in the spiritual uplift 
of this community. Those were days of great zeal and 
serious earnestness upon the part of all who bore the 
name of Jesus the Savior. 

.In 1877 the present church edifice was erected and 
dedicated to the Lord. Her latchstring of welcome has 
ever been extended to all who would come for the 
things of the Spirit. Here the Gospel has been preached, 
wells of living water have been sounded, and souls born 



itual culture of the community, to the extent that there into the Kingdom and dedicated to the service of the 

Master. Today you are resting securely upon tn< 



are few equals in our great commonwealth. One gen- 
eration alter another has been born and reared in the 
community you now call yours. Each in turn faithfully 
employed sound principles of home building, holding 
fast to the good of the past, and adding valuable con- 



of faith if-we did not mention the commendable devo- 
tion you are rendering the Master in soul-saving, and 
putting under his footstool the enemies of faith. You 
are faithfully maintaining all the good of the past, and 
are adding rich contributions to pass on to future gen- 
erations. This is a service that is certainly well-pleas- 
ing to the Lord. But this sketch would not be com- 
plete until each one of us passes silently out of this 
room to the near-by cemetery, where our heartaches 
were healed with an immortal hope and our tears were 
changed into visions of a glorious resurrection. Let us 
there with bowed heads say to ourselves : " Here lie 
the earthly remains of our fathers and mothers, the 
best we ever knew on earth. We will be faithful 
keepers of the rich heritage of faith that they handed 
on to us. We will be valiant in renouncing Satan, with 
all his pernicious ways, and we will remain faithful 
until death." Now may the grace of our Lord and 
Savior Jesus Christ ; the love of God the Father ; the 
communion of the Holy Spirit be with us all, now 
and forever. Amen. 
Daleville, Va. . » . 

Make Beds Comfortable 

BY ROYAL S. COPELAND, M. D. 
United States Senator from New York 

The following article is sent us for publication in 
the Messenger as " a suggestion to those who enter- 
tain traveling preachers." The preacher who sends it 
has probably had some experience which made an im- 
pression on his mind, as well as on his body. 

Have you made many visits around the country and 
been assigned to the "spare room"? 

I am one of the best sleepers in the world, but many such 
beds have given me hours for meditation. Perhaps it was 
merited punishment, but, to put it mildly, it was real pun- 
ishment. 

You recall the old "Mikado" song, "Let the punishment 
fit the crime 1" I suppose a doctor who has ordered many 
sick folks to. bed, ought to be sentenced to spend at least 
one night a month in a spare-room bed. This experience 
will make him think twice before he banishes a patient 
to bed. | 1 

Why does it never occur to a housewife to sleep once 
in every bed in her house? You can get used to any- 
thing, but it is a shame to have to get used to a miserable 
bed. It is such a needless thing, too. It is just as easy 
to have a comfortable bed as a bed productive of night 
terrors. Sleep in all your beds and see how you like 
them. 

Health depends on sleep which is normal in quantity and 
quality. The erectness of the figure, the fulness of the 
chest, the activity of the abdominal organs, the growth and 
development of the body— all these arc influenced material- 
ly by posture in bed. 

Do you realize that if you live out man's allotted time 
of threescore years and ten you will be in bed at least a 
quarter of a century? Why spend twenty-five or thirty 
years on a rack of torture, when, for a few dollars, you 
can get a decent set of bed-springs and a comfortable 
mattress? 

But my appeal today is not for a comfortable bed, 
simply for the sake of ease and contentment. I beg you 
to have a good bed because health demands it. 

You can not get restful sleep by reclining on a pile of 
corn-cobs, or on a stone heap. The top of a cord of wood 
does not appeal to the imagination. Worn-out and brok- 
en-down bed-springs are just as unsuited for refreshing 
sleep as one of these. 

Look over your bed equipment. Perhaps you haven't 
given it a thought since you began housekeeping forty 
years ago. Bear in mind that invention has not lagged 
in this field. 

Like everything else, bed-springs and mattresses show 
the effects of progress. The springs are made to fit the 
body, to support and soothe it. They waft you away to 
slumberland and to health-giving refreshment. As by 
magic they steal away your aches and pains, your worries 
and tribulations. 

You want your children to develop symmetrical and 
beautiful bodies, you want their spinal columns to be 
straight you want them to have dreamless and health- 
building sleep. You are too hospitable to permit your 
guests to suffer and too proud to have them leave your 
home to poke fun at your spare bed, and you want to be 
comfortable yourself. 

a housekeeper and have fallen short 



, , y ou have failed as _ 

levels of faith and hope, wrought for the most part by of your duty to family and friends, unless your beds are 

those whose voices come to us in silent whispers from m keep i n g with your orderly house and your tempting 

the past. What a great heritage is.oursl— yet it would tab le. For equally important to 

not be justice to the present attendants at this citadel which the members o: 



of your family sleep. 



24 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



AMONG THE CHURCHES 



ES I 



Calendar for Sunday, January 13 

Sunday-school Lesion, The Long Sojourn in Egypt.— 
Gen. 47:1-12. 

Christian Workers* Meeting, The Bible and Man.— Psa. 
8. ■:■•:--:-■:* 

Gains for the Kingdom 

One baptism in the Canton church, 111. 
One baptism in the Flora church, Ind. 
One baptism in the Springfield church, Ohio. 
Three baptisms in the Genmantown church, Pa. 
One baptism in the Worthington church, Minn. 
Five baptisms in the Twin Falls church, Idaho. 
One was reclaimed in the Fairview church, Mich. 
Four baptisms in the Ashland City church, Ohio. 
One baptism in the First church, Kansas City, Mo. 
Two baptisms at Hyndman, Pa.,— Bro. J. W. Fyock, of 
Tyrone, Pa., evangelist. 

Two were baptized and one reclaimed recently in the 
Grand Rapids church, Mich. 

Five baptisms at Dalcville, Va.,— Bro. Ernest Coffman, 
of Harrisonburg, Va., evangelist. 

Six baptisms in the Bachelor Run church, Ind.,— Bro. 
Ira Long, of Colfax, Ind., evangelist. 

Three baptisms in the Akron church, Pa.,— Bro. J. W. G. 
Hershey, of Lititz, Pa., evangelist. 

Sixteen additions to the Worden church, Wis.,— Bro. R. 
G. Rarick, of Stanley, Wis., evangelist. 

Five baptisms in the Mississinewa church, Ind., — Bro. C. 
A. Wright, Indianapolis, Ind., evangelist. 

Three additions to the Mt. Etna church, Iowa, — Bro. Wm. 
Thompson, of Ottumwa. Iowa, evangelist. 

Two baptisms at Fairchance mission, Uniontown, Pa., — 
Bro. J. E. Whitacre, the pastor, in charge. 

Two baptisms in the Valley Bethel church, Va.,— Bro. 
L. S. Yoder, of Weyers Cave, Va., evangelist. 

Twenty-three confessions in the Conewago church, Pa., 
—Bro. Hiram Eshelman, of Mt. Joy, Pa., evangelist. 

Twelve were baptized and three await the rite at Pleas- 
ant Dale, Va.,— Bro. W. M. Kahle, the pastor, in charge. 

Five decisions for Christ in the Fairview church, Iowa, 
—Bro. O. H. Austin and wife, of McPherson, Kans., evan- 
gelists. 

Two baptisms in the Circleville church, Ohio,— Bro. J. 
W. Fidler, of Brookville, Ohio, evangelist; one baptism 
previous. 

Thirteen were baptized and three restored in the Logans- 
port church, Ind.,— Bro. J. Edwin Jarboc, of Lincoln, Nebr., 
evangelist. 

Thirty-one were baptized and three received on former 
baptism in the Mexico church, Ind.,— Bro. Fred Fair, of 
Fostoria, Ohio, evangelist. 

Twenty-seven were baptized and two await the rite in 
the Bradford church, Ohio,— Bro. J. Oscar Winger, of 
North Manchester, Ind., evangelist. 

Three made the good choice in the Tippecanoe church, 
Ohio,— Bro. John Ebberly, of North Manchester, Ind., 
evangelist; one addition since the meeting. 

Our Evangelists 

Bro. D. R. McFadden, of Smithville, Ohio, began Jan. 6 
in the New Carlisle church, Ohio. 

Bro. R. N. Leatherman, of West Alexandria, Ohio, to 
begin Jan. 14 in the Middle District church, Ohio. 
4, 4> <|t <|> 

Personal Mention 

Bro. Ervin Weaver, R. 10, Goshen, Ind., is now in posi- 
tion to accept an engagement for evangelistic meetings. 

The Bible Institute in charge of Brethren D. H. Zigler 
and D. E. Miller and Sister Lydia E. Taylor, at Sebring, 
Fla., begins Feb. 4 and may last two weeks. 

Bro. Conrad Fitz, now presiding over the Denver church, 
Colo., has not been in good health for some time, but we 
are glad to learn that his condition is somewhat improved: 

Bro. H. K. Ober, of Elizabethtown, Pa., is out in the lec- 
ture field occasionally. "Life Choices" is the subject of 
one of his lectures which was enjoyed recently by a large 
audience at New Carlisle, Ohio. 

Bro. J. E. Miller was called to the Waddams Grove 
church, 111., on Friday of last week to conduct the funeral 
services for Bro. Albert Myers, whose critical illness was 
mentioned in our last issue. 

We are sorry to hear that Bro. H. C. Early is having dif- 
ficulty with his eyesight, an affliction which has troubled 
him mor^ or less in times past ?nd now seems to threaten 
serioi s interference with his work. 



Bro. H. J. Lilly changes his address from Carlisle to 
Hebcr Springs, Ark. 

The prayers of God's people are requested in behalf of 
Sister Ida Garner, wife of Eld. George Garner, of the 
Black Swamp congregation, Ohio. Sister Garner has had 
to undergo a severe surgical operation. 

Sister Kathym Ziegler, India missionary on furlough, at- 
tended the Indianapolis Convention and then came on to 
the Publishing House to visit her nephew, Bro. W. H. 
Ziegler, foreman of the mailing room, and other friends. 

Bro. L. W. Shultz dropped in Wednesday morning of 
last week and gave the " Messenger " rooms a friendly call. 
He had recently been at the Young People's Conference in 
Northeastern Ohio and came out to Elgin to attend a 
meeting of the Executive Committee of the General Sun- 
day School Board. 

Bro. Jas. A. Sell, of Hollidaysburg, Pa., is one of our 
veterans with more things than years to his credit. "The 
expenses of the year were considerable" he writes, "how- 
ever, all bills were paid with a small balance in the treasury. 
All the different departments of the church were organized 
for aggressive work. The officers are all efficient and the 
outlook is hopeful," which is just as it should be every- 
where. 

Bro. S. F. Sanger, of Northern California, is still quite 
active in the ministry, we are informed, notwithstanding 
his threescore and fifteen years. On Christmas day he 
gave an address on the history of the church, in which he 
said, along with other good things, that if the spirit of 
sacrifice and devotion which characterized the settlers at 
Germantown had been active in all our subsequent history, 
greater things-might have been done. Have you any dis- 
position to dispute the proposition? 

Two other sub-committees of the General Sunday School 
Board, besides the Executive Committee named elsewhere, 
had meetings at the Publishing House last week. These 
were the Editing Committee and the Young People's Com- 
mittee. These meetings brought to the House Bro. C. S. 
Ikenberry, of Daleville, Va., Sister Eva Lichty Whisler, of 
Milledgeville, 111., and. Bro. Shultz, mentioned above. The 
three meetings required the attendance of only three 
persons from out of town, other committee members be- 
ing resident here. It is noteworthy also, as a matter of 
economy, that only one had to come any considerable 
distance. ,;. .j. <* •> 

Special Notices 

Notice to Churches of Kansas.— The quota for the 
Kansas Brethren Home for the first half of the year was 
due Jan. 1, 1924. Please send same to O. H. Feiler, 133 
Cary St., McPherson, Kans. 

Notice carefully what Bro. M. C. Swigart has to say in 
his account of the two hundredth anniversary on page 
20 about having the addresses printed for general 
circulation. It seems to us that these addresses would 
make a valuable booklet and that many of our readers 
and others would find them helpful. Decide how many 
you want and write Bro. Swigart. 

Germany Needs Clothing.— From Bro. Maytiard Cassady, 
who is pursuing his studies in Germany, and from the 
American Friends Service Committee our Relief Com- 
mittee has learned that there is urgent need for clothing 
in Germany. The Friends are well organized for the dis- 
tribution of this clothing and commended our people high- 
ly for the good quality of clothing furnished them last year 
for Russia. Communicating with them we have been in- 
formed that the greatest need for clothing in Germany is 
for material in the piece for hospitals and orphanages. 
Good second-hand clothing for children may also be used 
to advantage in children's homes. The Friends find cloth- 
ing for adults more difficult to distribute, and that work is 
more in line with the various social organizations of Ger- 
many. Outside clothing, especially coats for men and 
women, are the garments for which there appears to be 
the greatest need. If our Aid Societies will take up this 
matter, buy the bolts of cloth and gather the second-hand 
clothing, wrap or sack well and prepay the freight to 
American Friends Service Committee, Broad and Callow- 
hill Sts. Station, Philadelphia, Reading Railway, Pa., their 
gifts will be cared for, sorted and repacked and shipped to 
Germany. Be sure and prepay the freight to Philadelphia. 
Quick action on your part will help to relieve suffering. 
Mark your bundles " Brethren " and the church will be 
credited for the same. 

J. E. Miller, Sec. Relief Committee. 
* * ♦ * 
Miscellaneous Items 

The Whitestone congregation. Wash., is preparing to 
build a new churchhouse. 

Calvary church is the new name of what was formerly 
known as the Armourdalc Mission of Kansas City, Kans. 

New and better churchhouses seem to be the order of 
the day, the Santa Ana church, Calif., being the latest to 
fall in line, so far as reported to us. 

The Sunfield church, Mich., is making plans to remodel 
it* house of worship the coming summer. We know of 
i. iln rs ih ; v utd be remodeled lo guod advantage. 



Here is an idea worth taking note of. It is a new item 
of business for a local church council: "We decided to 
send greetings from the church to our children who are 
away at school." Isn't that fine? 

The Salem church, Iowa, has a half hour program of 
special music, etc., before the Sunday evening preaching 
service, at which the pastor gives the people a gospel ser- 
mon. It sounds like a healthy combination and they say 
the people like it.' 

The Leamersville church, Pa., is said to have " a live 
young people's department of Christian Worker also an 
interesting junior department which meets at an early 
hour on Sunday evening." A situation of that kind prom- 
ises well for the future. 

The Wenatchee Valley church, Wash., where Bro. Ira 
E. Lapp has lately entered on a new pastorate, is said to 
be "a scene of activity." At least the building site is. 
" Men and teams have been busy excavating for the first 
two units of the basement." 

Did you ever hear of anything like this — a surprise on 
the janitor who had served the church faithfully for 
twenty years free of charge? A good janitor is a mighty 
important factor in a congregation and. deserves more 
recognition than he usually gets. 

At one love feast held on Christmas evening in com- 
memoration of the first love feast in America the pastor 
"gave a very interesting talk on the history and growth 
-of the church followed by the examination service" — sure- 
ly a very fitting thing to do and suggestive of ways of add- 
ing to the profit of such occasions. 

"Some even sacrificed Christmas things so they could 
give," says one correspondent, referring to the one dol- 
lar per member Sunday-school campaign for missions. But 
wait. It was the children that did it. You would hardly ex- 
pect grown-up folks to do anything like that, would you? 
Actually sacrifice something? Did you ever try it? Do 
you know anything about the peculiar feeling it gives you? 

We hear of one church to which new converts have been 
added lately giving a reception to them in which an even- 
ing of social fellowship was enjoyed by all. Some of the 
new members gave talks in which they told why they had 
united with the church. It seems to us an occasion of that 
kind could be productive of much good by strengthening 
the bond of brotherly love. 

The Fairview church, Iowa, is proposing to build a new 
house of worship and has made plans for raising the 
necessary funds. Here is a significant statement in our 
correspondent's report : " We have a number of members 
with a vision of service who are willing to sacrifice for 
the good of the cause." That tells the story and it will tell 
the same kind of a story anywhere. 

Our folks who attended the Indianapolis Student Vol- 
unteer Convention are especially enthusiastic about the 
anti-war sentiment which was in evidence there. This was 
the dominant issue, they say, and the convention almost 
resolved itself into a great peace meeting. And the number 
who stood out for the strict non-resistant position was 
surprisingly large. War is a relic of a barbarous age and 
is doomed to pass away. It will go sooner if you help. 

A certain congregation wanted a pastor. The committee 
appointed to look into the matter found that an indebted- 
ness of over five hundred dollars was a hindrance to united 
effort. The church might have decided that the proposal 
was not possible, but instead of that a campaign was or- 
ganized and, with the help of the Sisters' Aid Society, car- 
ried to a successful issue. Now the members there are go- 
ing after the pastor. One way to handle obstacles is just 
to go to work and remove them. 

The First Annual Report of the Board of Religious Edu- 
cation of the " Bridgewater Region" is on our desk. It is 
full of interesting facts and figures. The following quota- 
tions from it will throw light on this important develop- 
ment in our church work: "The District Sunday School 
Secretaries of the five Districts comprising this region and 
two additional members elected respectively by the Board 
of Religious Education of the Second District of Virginia 
and the Sunday School Board of the Northern District of 
Virginia constitute the Regional Board of Religious Edu- 
cation. During the year the Regional Board centered its 
effort upon the promotion of Vacation Schools and Train- 
ing Schools." 

Through its Secretary -Treasurer, Mrs. Levi Minnich, of 
Greenville, Ohio, the general organization of Sisters' Aid 
Societies is sending out a "Message to the Aid Societies 
for 1924." It reviews briefly some of the accomplishments 
of the societies, making special reference to the projects 
just now in process of completion. It speaks also of "A 
New Task for our Sisters' Aid Societies/' which makes us 
wonder what the sisters will be taking up next. It is re- 
quested that " this letter be read in each local Aid Society 
Meeting," a point which local and District secretaries will 
need to think about, if this is regarded as it should be. 
The Mission Board will certainly appreciate this para- 
graph: "We trust that the finances of the societies will be 
in such a condition, after paying their quota for the In- 
dustrial School, that they can also contribute some to the 
Emergency Fund of our General Mission Board." 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



25 



AROUND THE WORLD 



Prohibition Posters (or Every College 

Every college and university of the country is invited to 
participate in the prohibition campaign which is to con- 
tinue for twenty weeks and consists of two striking post- 
ers for each weelj. These posters are to be exhibited on 
the bulletin boards giving information on subjects such 
as these: athletics and booze, why America went dry, 
light wine and beer. We trust that each of our colleges 
will participate in this movement. 



Student Volunteers Oppose War 

At the Indianapolis Student Volunteer Convention the 
question of the best method of preventing war was under 
discussion. Every phase of the question was heard. The 
proposition that finally carried favored a League of Na- 
tions and a World Court of International Justice as the 
best means of preventing war. This proposition, however, 
carried with it a resolution that war would be resorted 
to in case an unavoidable dispute should be referred 
to the World Court and not properly adjusted. A marked 
feature of the voting was that the secretaries and other 
officials who sat on the platform, by an overwhelming 
majority voted against war under any conditions. 



THE QUIET HOUR 



January 13 

Jan. 13 has been set as Law and Order Day in which 
to emphasize the benefits of prohibition. It is fitting that 
on this anniversary, three years after national prohibi- 
tion has come in, we review and emphasize the gains we 
have experienced. Especially is it fitting because of the 
wet minority that is loudly proclaiming the failure of pro- 
hibition and is doing all within its power to thwart en- 
forcement and on every hand encourage the violation of 

the law. 

Limiting Personal Liberty 

The League of Nations Council is planning strong meas- 
ures against the opium traffic. Two conferences have 
been called to meet in Geneva in November next. The 
purpose of these conferences is to limit the output and 
manufacture of opium to medical and scientific pur- 
poses, thus doing away with the illegal and deadly drug 
traffic so prevalent at present. Had China been helped 
years ago when she tried to quell the opium traffic the 
world would be better off today. 



Thanks to Prohibition 



When so many papers are being subsidized by the wet 
element and so much false propaganda is being spread 
broadcast it is refreshing to read the following statement 
of Roger W. Babson, statistician, who knows business as 
few men know it: "The great improvement in business 
which followed the war was very largely the result of the 
influence of prohibition and the salvage of our former 
waste of two billion dollars or more each year due to the 
liquor traffic. I know of no other way to account for the 
great impetus in home building, the tremendous numbers 
of new automobiles purchased, the larger volume of de- 
partment store sales, accompanied at. the same time by a 
continued swelling of savings bank deposits, when the 
tendency of business as a whole should normally have 

been downward." ■ 

Wbat Is Your Death Rate? 

We are told that a million and a half of lives were 
saved in 1922 of people who ordinarily would have died 
in our country had the death rate of 1880 prevailed. Sta- 
tistics show that the following five States have a death rate 
of less than ten per thousand: Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, 
Nebraska and Minnesota. The following States have a 
death rate of more than fourteen in every thousand: Cali- 
fornia, New Hampshire, Maine "and Vermont. Of sixty- 
seven cities in which records were kept, the lowest death 
rate was found in Akron, Seattle, Fort Worth and Mil- 
waukee, each of these losing less than ten in one thou- 
sand. The highest death rate was found in the following 
cities in each of which sixteen or more out of every thou- 
sand perished: Denver, Fall River, Nashville, New Or- 
leans and Memphis. In Chicago the death rate for every 
thousand was 11.2; in New York 12; in Philadelphia 13.2; 
and m San Francisco 14.1. Among the reasons assigned 
for longevity in cities where the death rate was low may 
be mentioned fresh air, pure milk, good water, wholesome 
food, no slums and a board of health that took for its 
slogan, " Prevention rather than cure." 



One Reason for the High Cost of Living 

Recently the Bureau of Markets in New York City made 
a survey to determine some of the reasons for the high 
cost of living. Setting to work one hundred twenty-five 
market inspectors it was found that the retailers were 
making from thirty to fifty per cent profit on bread. Hart- 
ford, Conn., has a population of 138,000 and in that city 
there are one thousand food dealers; its food-dealer popu- 
lation is five thousand. This means that every twenty- 
eight people in Hartford support one member of the family 
of a food dealer, not counting his employees. The report 
further calls attention to the fact that we have about 
3,793,000 food dealers who are engaged in selling food- 
stuffs of every kind produced by the 6,500,000 farm families 
in America. According to these figures we have one family 
supported by selling the food which is produced by every 
two farm families in the United States. It has been dis- 
covered that where the average farm price for potatoes 
is fifty-six cents a bushel, the ultimate consumer pays an 
average of two dollars a bushel for these same potatoes. 
On the whole for every dollar paid the producer of food- 
stuffs, the utimate consumer pays two dollars. This sug- 
gests that cooperative marketing may help diminish both 
the number of those engaged in and the expense inherent 
hi o..i present ex^en&.vc method of distribution. 



A New Point in Law 

Recently a' case of murder in Chicago proved how jus- 
tice may miscarry. The prosecution easily proved that 
the defendant had killed a man in a jealous rage. There 
was no circumstantial evidence in the case. The crime 
was proved beyond any doubt. The prisoner, however, 
was freed because the lawyers of the defendant demanded 
that the prosecution prove the victim had ever lived. 
Only three witnesses of the crime knew the man who had 
been murdered, and these three were the murderer who 
was not obliged to testify; his wife, whom the law would 
not allow to testify, and a*brothcr of the murdered man 
who in some mysterious way had disappeared. The prose- 
cution proved that the man had been shot and killed by 
the defendant, but the State could not present any wit- 
ness that the man had ever lived. Such a travesty on 
justice shows how hard it is to commit "legal" crime. 



A Five -Hundred- Year-Old Roof 

Westminster Hall, 69 feet wide by 240 feet in length, was 
built a few years after the Norman conquest, and its 
present walls are those which the Norman builders erected. 
The original roof, completed in 1099, was supported, it is 
believed, by the side walls and by two intermediate lines 
of timber posts. This roof fell into decay, and King 
Richard II, in 1397, decided upon the erection of a new 
roof. Whether it was by the king's order or not, the 
master carpenter set about the daring task of roofing 
this great hall in one clear span from wall to wall, in 
timber. No timber roof of such a span had been aj^pmpted 
before, nor was any such attempted in the centuries of 
medieval roof construction that followed. Furthermore, 
because of the enormous size of the original timbers, it is 
certain that the Westminster Hall roof could not be 
duplicated in oak today. The carpenter did his work 
well, for after enduring the storm and stress of over five 
centuries, the vast oaken fabric is standing today just as 
he planned and built it, though it has recently been re- 
inforced by steel framing concealed in the original timber 

work. 

Two Million Children's Calloused Hands 

Americans blush with shame when they are classed with 
India, China and Japan in exploiting their ungrown chil- 
dren to carry on their boasted industrialism. The unde- 
veloped bodies, delicate muscles and forming minds of 
over a million boys and girls are thrust into the clutches of 
materialism in order to feed, clothe and keep warm other 
millions of grown-ups, who ride in "automobiles and live in 
costly homes. By child labor is not meant the hours spent 
in doing chores and helping in the light tasks of home and 
farm, but rather, gainful occupations through long and 
regular hours, robbing the child of normal development in 
mind and body. Is there any wonder that the women of 
this nation are stirring things at the national capital in 
order that the United States may save this lost million of 
American children? They are anxious to see this country 
come out of the class of the so-called "heathen nations," 
and line up with the Christian peoples of the Old and New 
World in caring for child life, Twelve of the western 
civilized countries have a national minimum standard of 
fourteen years as a basis for child labor, whereas the 
United States has no national standard concerning the 
employment of children. Nine States have no laws pro- 
hibiting all children under fourteen from working in both 
factories and stores, but no section of the land is free 
from this crime against childhood. The Pacific and North- 
west States have the least of it, but in many States of the 
South it would appear that child labor has been substi- 
tuted for slave labor. In Alabama, Mississippi, South Car- 
olina and Georgia, one out of every four children under 
sixteen years of age is a laborer. In Old New England, 
Rhode Island is the worst offender, employing one out of 
every eight of her future citizens, and Connecticut and 
Massachusetts, one out of every twelve, the latter State 
having 33,723 children at work, fewer than a thousand of 
\yhom are on her farms. 

The Aliens in Our Midst 

According to a survey recently completed New York 
City has a population of 2,000,000 foreign-born, 2,300,000 na- 
tive-born of foreign-born parents, and 1,500,000 native-born 
of native parents. Of the foreign-born residents of the 
United States, seventy-five and five-tenths per cent live 
in cities with a population of more than twenty-five hun- 
dred In Chicago the foreign-born population is twenty- 
i,hie mid eight-tenths per cent; in Boston it is thirty-one 



Making the Most of Our Spiritual Gifts 

Z Timothy 1: 6 

For Week Beginning January 20 

Our Spiritual Gifts Are Blessings Conveyed to Us by 

Others.— The text most likely has reference to Timothy's 
appointment to the position of minister. Back of that the 
anostle recognized a natural aptness, the effective training 
of a pious mother, and all the religious instruction which 
the promising youth had received. All these things gave 
him a foundation for "unfeigned faith," a state of mind 
and an attitude of heart which fitted him for the Gospel 
ministry. With it (see verse 7) went a spirit of power, 
love, and discipline. 

We may say that our spiritual gifts include everything 
which gives us spiritual character and enables us to do 
spiritual work. None arc wholly lacking in spiritual 
qualities. They are given to all by the creative hand of 
God. Then follow all the holy influences of home, church, 
school, associations, to cultivate the capacity of what 
God has already given us. The Christian consciousness 
is itself a spiritual gift. It is not gained by us alone, but 
is the gift of God through all the influences which give us 
the revelation of Christ. We may not ignore the part 
of the Bible and Holy Spirit. 

We Arc Responsible for the Cultivation of Our Spiritual 
Gifts. — God never gave a useless gift. It is possible for 
men to misuse or neglect the finest thing ever made. 
There is no greater tragedy than that God-given powers 
should be wasted. Timothy was exhorted to "stir into a 
flame" his gift For the ministry. A reminder now and 
then was a good thing for so consecrated a Christian. It 
ought not be amiss (or any of us to be frequently re- 
minded that embers of good intentions and resolutions 
will die unless fanned into activity. We owe it tp ourselves 
to become all we can be by building spiritual graces into 
our characters. We arc accountable to God for what 
he has placed in our hands. All our good family con- 
nections and special opportunities for development will 
avail us naught unless we pay heed to the necessity for 
looking after our own hearts. 

Our Spiritual Gifts Are Made Most of in Service to Hu- 
manity.— We serve God by placing heavenly treasure in 
earthly deposits. (Sec Matthew 19:21.) We save our best 
selves by losing them in the interests of others. Our spir- 
itual graces grow by giving out spiritual influence. There 
is no recompense of reward greater than the glow of inner 
joy which comes from having made a real investment in 
behalf of another. It was the purpose of Timothy's ordi- 
nation that he should preach the Word and lead others in 
the truth. Every Christian will find the real meaning of his 
Christianity when he puts it to the test of meeting the soul 
needs of his fellow-men. 
Must we be ordained ministers to exercise spiritual 

K 1 " s ' Suggestions for Meditation 

From whom have I received my spiritual gifts? 

Who has ever received any benefit from the gifts I 

have? 

Does God value some spiritual gifts more Jiighly than 

others? 

Would I be willing to render an account to God now 
for my use of the spiritual gifts he has given me? 
A Prayer 

Father of Love ! Thou hast lavishly bestowed spiritual 
gifts upon our lives. We thank thee for the hearts to 
receive them, the minds to think upon them, and the 
powers to exercise -them. Save us from limiting our 
vision, our capacity, and our usefulness by any wilful 
attitude. Remind us constantly of our respons.bil.ty 
toward ourselves, toward thee, and toward our brothers. 
Grant us the ability to pray, and live, and serve, as Jesus 
did. For his sake. Amen. J- H - H - 



and nine-tenths per cent and in Cleveland thirty and one- 
tenth per cent. We have a foreign-born population of 
14 000000 of whom at least 3,000,000 can not speak the 
English language and another 3,000,000 can not read it. 
In his first message to Congress, President Coolidge spoke 
these sensible words concerning aliens coming to America: 
"American institutions rest solely on good citizenship 
They were created bv people who had a background of 
self-government. New arrivals should be limited to our 
capacity to absorb them into the ranks of good citizen- 
ship America must be kept American. For this purpose, 
it is necessary to continue a policy of restricted .num- 
eration ■ • I am convinced that our present economic 
and social conditions warrant a limitation of those to be 
admitted. We should find additional safety .„ a law re- 
quiring the immediate registration of all aliens. Those 
who do not want to be partakers of the Amencan .pint 
ought nol to settle in America.' 



26 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



The Vision and the Task 

(Continuc.l from Page 19) 

will that we bear the message of his love into as many 
corners of the world as time will permit us to reach. 

But have we properly conceived our task? Are we 
sure that we know what it means to make of a poor, 
ignorant worshiper of Buddha a disciple of Christ? Do 
we know how to teach him to " observe all things what- 
soever I have commanded you"? In short, do you 
and I measure up to the task which it is our privilege, 
as Christians, to perform ? 

Turn with me, if you will, to the life of Paul — that 
great pioneer missionary. No one can deny that he was 
a man of vision. By a vision Christ was revealed to 
him, and he opened his spiritual eyes to the fact that he 
had been mistaken in his task. But follow him for a 
few days after this vision. Acts 9:11 tells us that he 
was praying. Surely we have a right to expect great 
things from a man who, having received a vision, falls 
upon his knees before God. 

When Ananias hesitated to bear the heavenly mes- 
sage and the divinely-bestowed gift of sight to Saul, 
the Lord said to him : " Go thy way : for he is a 
chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the 
Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: for I 
will show him how great things he must suffer for my 
name's sake." And Paul did, indeed, suffer many 
things for his name's sake. 

The following paragraph gives the spiritual standard 
which our own Mission Board sets up for its appli- 
cants: 

"A genuine religious experience, self-sacrificing devo- 
tion, strong faith in Christ, a love for the souls of men; a 
strong conviction of the call of Christ, to seek their sal- 
vation and establish his Kingdom among non-Christian 
peoples; familiarity with and love for the Word of God, 
habits of prayer, experience in soul-saving — all these are 
qualifications which undergird the very success of the true 
missionary." 

Is not this a big challenge ? Truly, it makes the 
seemingly little things appear great. If we are real 
Volunteers, it will cause us to wonder : " Am I big 
enough to do it? Would it be better not to attempt so 
much ?" 

Too many are willing to make the big sacrifice and 
offer their lives to be used in a foreign field, who are 
not willing to turn themselves about, look self squarely 
in the face and ask the vital question: "Is my particular 
type of Christianity worth taking to my neighbor?" 

The missionary must be the living expression of the 
Christ he teaches. It is impossible for us to teach 
others to " observe all things whatsoever I have com- 
manded you " until we can first do them ourselves. 
People read their Bibles in your life and more accur- 
ately than on the printed page. They scrutinize how 
we " observe all things." 

Before attempting to carry the Gospel of eternal life 
to the sin-darkened world, we ourselves must become 
firmly rooted and grounded in the faith. By far the 
greatest percentage of failures among foreign mission- 
aries is due to a lack of stability in believing the funda- 
mental doctrines of our religion. It is absolutely 
necessary that we believe and know why we believe. 
It is not sufficient to proclaim to the world that Jesus 
Christ promises us a happy life after death. We must 
know the Book so well that any arguments, given by 
followers of another faith, can be met by us, not only 
to our own satisfaction, but in a manner conclusively 
convincing to the unbeliever. 

In Rome there is a beautiful building, which is called 
the " Palace of Justice." In that building there is a 
room which thousands of people visit every year. The 
walls and ceiling of this room are one immense paint- 
ing, which is the whole beauty of the room. As the 
visitor steps inside the door, his eyes expectantly turn 
toward this picture, only to be disappointed. All seems 
to be confusion. The colors do not blend; the figures 
are out of proportion ; and the traveler wonders why 
he has been so deceived by reports of this wonderful 
room. The guide leads him into a certain spot and he 
again looks up. Ah ! what a wonderful painting 1 All 
is harmony which was once confusion. He sees a most 
marvelous blending of colors and a matchless sym- 
metry throughout the whole production. What is the 
secret? It is this: He is standing where the artist 



stood when he got the perspective of his painting. 

So we must stand where Paul stood when he said 
out of the fulness of his Christian experience, " For I 
know him whom I have believed, and I am persuaded 
that he is able to keep that which I have committed 
unto him against that day." 

Weak and helpless as we are, we may realize our 
high aims if we " know him " and prove his promises. 
The Father who commissioned us has promised to re- 
lease us from the bondage of sin. We may conquer 
ourselves completely, if we will, but we must go to 
him and demand the fulfillment of that precious prom- 
ise. 

Perhaps all of us have said in our hearts that by 
exerting great will-power it is possible for us to over- 
come our faults. But will-power is not enough. The 
will takes us only to the place where we say to God : 
" I zvill have thee cleanse my life of the things which 
hinder the work of the Kingdom." It is a simple case 
of " Let go I" and " Let God !" 

Take your Bibles and tunf to the tenth chapter of the 
Gospel according to Matthew. There you will see a 
most beautiful picture, painted by the Master as he 
sent his first disciples into the vineyard. He had al- 
ready given them the vision : " The harvest indeed is 
plenteous but the laborers are few." His next step is 
to outline the work he wants them to do, not forgetting - 
to point out the dangers and hardships which tbey 
must surely meet But with each hardship comes a 
promise : " But when they deliver you up, be not 
anxious how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be 
given you in that hour what ye shall speak. For it is 
not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father that 
speaketh in you." " And ye shall be hated of all men 
for my name's sake : but he that endureth to the end, 
the same shall be saved." 

But the vision of the harvest and the task of taking 
up the cross of Christ and following after him, were 
not given to the twelve alone. The challenge still holds 
today. We, too, are called to become commission 
manifestbrs. Clear as is the vision, and great as is 
the task, we, too, have the promise in its fullest 
measure : " And lo, I am with you always, even unto 
the end of the world." 

Girard, III. . ^ . 

The Voices That Carried Back 

BY VERNA A. COONEY 

Lifting my eyes to the mountain, I saw a path that 
wound around and around, yet always up. Flowers 
bloomed alpng this path and everywhere was God's 
wonderful pure air filled with the song of birds. Not 
always were the travelers aware of these wonders of 
nature, as they were very much concerned with the 
difficult places of their journey. 

In some places this path was very steep. Jagged 
rocks cut their feet and if they slipped they might go 
over a precipice to the depths below. Wolves and 
mountain lions prowled through the undergrowth and 
serpents glided here and there, while, at times, clouds 
hid the sun. But the singing of the birds and the 
perfume of the flowers were always present, and a 
stream of clear, cool, sparkling water came hurrying 
down this mountain, from which these weary travelers 
might quench their thirst as they rested a moment on its 
banks. 

Just starting up this path were many small travelers 
— just little children — while on up were young people, 
and farther on those reaching the prime of life. Near 
the top were many white-haired pilgrims — some lean- 
ing hard on their staffs, others walking steadily with 
their eyes fixed on the crest. And as they walked, they 
talked and their voices carried back. Many of them 
talked of the thorns and briers and the jagged rocks 
along their path, and of the fierce wolves and lions that 
beset their way, and the serpents hidden in the grass. 
There seemed to be doubts in their minds that those 
coming on could make the journey. 

They forgot the listening ears of those farther down 
the mountain-side, and as their voices reached them, 
fear clutched at the heart of the younger pilgrims and 
they thought: " Where, oh, where, is their guide and 
companion ? Did he not go with them ? Is it such a 
weary journey ?" Oh, perhaps, they could never make 



it, but, listening, they hear the voices of some sainted 
pilgrims and the message come back to them. 

They hear of the One who walks beside them, who 
went with them all the way, who helped to bear their 
burdens and guarded them from the prowling beasts 
and who crushed the serpent's head. Then their hearts 
take courage and they resolve to be true, for with such 
a Guide and Companion this journey can be safely 
made. 

Many times, as the voices carry back, they hear talk 
of the new home to which all these are journeying. 
Some are so happy that they can almost get a glimpse 
of this glory land ; and as those down the mountain side 
listen, their hearts are cheered and encouraged. Yet 
sometimes the younger ones long to hear more about 
that path just ahead; to be assured of the love and 
strength of their Guide ; to know he will not let them 
slip if they walk close beside him, for they think of the 
years of travel ahead of them, before they too, with 
whitening hair, and well-spent bodies will be as far on 
their journey. Then let us 

Call Back 

If you have gone a little way ahead of me, call back— 
'Twill cheer my heart and help my feet along the stony 

track. 
And if perchance faith's light is dim, because the oil is low, 
Your call will guide my lagging course, as wearily I go. 

Call back, and tell me that he went with you into the 

storm ; 
Call back and say he kept you when. the forest's roots 

were torn ; 
That when the heavens thundered and the earthquake 

shook the hill 
He bore you up and held you where the very air was still. 

Oh, friend, call back and tell me, for I can not see your 

face ; 
They say it glows with triumph, and your feet bound in the 

race ; , ' 

But there are mists between us, and my spirit eyes are 

dim, 
And I can not see the glory, though I long for word of him. 

But if you'll say he heard you when your prayer was but 
a cry, 

And if you'll say he saw you through the night's sin- 
darkened sky, 

If you have gone a little way ahead, oh, friend, call back — 

'Twill cheer my heart and help my feet along the stony 
track. — Author Unknown. 

Glendora, Calif. 



A Paradox 

BY _A. V. SAGER 

It was along towards the latter part of the Civil 
War, when two men were riding horseback along the 
ridge road in the Valley of Virginia. The one was an 
elderly man with streaks of gray running through his 
hair, dressed in civilian clothes. The young man wore 
the regulation uniform of a Confederate cavalryman. 
He was well armed with two holsters of revolvers of 
heavy caliber hanging to his belt, in addition to a saber. 
Both had clean-cut features, kindly eyes and an expres- 
sion of more than ordinary intelligence. Of large 
physique, bone, sinew and muscle, they were fine types 
of manhood. From their resemblance one would have 
thought them to be father and son, but no, they were 
uncle and nephew. If their physical appearance was 
about the same, their habit of thought, their spiritual 
texture was as different as night and day, as we shall 
-see. 

For the moment of which we speak, the road ran in 
a hollow or depression, but shortly it turned abruptly to 
the right, up a steep incline of perhaps one hundred 
feet. At the top of this plateau, or ridge, could be seen 
the most beautiful panorama of hills and valleys, farm- 
houses and the distant mountains. 

The elderly man being of a reflective mind and a 
lover of nature was deeply impressed with this scene, as 
he had been hundreds of times before. The hard knocks 
and experiences of life had mellowed his soul. He 
could fully appreciate the forces that were at work 
around bim. Nearly all of them of mystery, but all 
for the good of mankind. He could not understand 
why man, the highest type of intelligence, should be so 
callous, so indifferent to these riches that God has 
placed in his hand. How could man be so brutal as to 
try to maim*and kill his own kind? He glanced at his 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



27 



companion, who seemed to be perfectly oblivious of 
the beauties around him. He addressed him : " Dan, 
did you ever kill a man?" 

" Uncle John, I don't know. I certainly tried hard 
enough." 

" Dan, how would you feel if you knew you had 
killed a man?" 

" Uncle John, I would feel that I had done my duty 
by trying to protect my State and my home — that I was 
fighting for a principle." 

" Dan, it is perfectly absurd. Would your opponent 
risk his life unless he thought he also was fighting for 
his home and principle? Here you are flying at each 
other's throats because you are looking at principle. 
Ridiculous, Dan ! How can we ever be forgiven for 
this deplorable condition ? Allow me to draw a picture, 
Dan. Up north there is a young wife, sitting by the 
lamp-light, with six children playing at her feet. Sud- 
denly the oldest boy asks: 'Mama, where is papa?' 
The young mother suppresses a sob. Tears come into 
her eyes, but, no, she must not show her grief before 
these children. She must give them courage and hope. 
At the same moment that husband and father is lying 
under the sod — maybe a victim of the bullet from your 
<*un or your saber. You have deprived these innocent 
little children of a dear father, the mother of a loving 
husband, and all for the madness and folly of one 
human against another. And this is only one in ten 
thousand, both North and South." 

He pitied this fine young man. He had a deep sor- 
row in his heart for all men like that. He knew that 
personally he was not so much to blame — that he was a 
victim of circumstances, as we all are, more or less. 
Then he said : "Yes, Dan, if you live through it all you 
will come back and tell it over and over again, about 
the brave deed that you and your companions did. You 
will not tell about the horrors of war, but about its 
glories. You will tell about the battlefields strewn with 
the dead and dying, and wounded, not with a deep sense 
of mortification and disgust, that the madness and stu- 
pidity of the human race should make such a tiling pos- 
sible, but rather exultingly as something only to be 
remembered with satisfaction. 

" Histories will be written about the great conflict 
Your children and their children will read and be 
taught, and their minds poisoned by this fallacious idea 
of patriotism. Their souls will be inoculated by this 
virus that has been handed down for thousands of 
years. ■ Dan, we must get this poison out of our souls. 
Look how quiet and peaceful nature is I Bountiful in 
all its glories for you and me to enjoy, if we will. 
But in yon house by the brook is sorrow. The son 
is under the sod. The father has not been accounted 
for — all because man will not profit by the bitter ex- 
perience of the past. God created man for a wise pur- 
pose. No, every man knows, if he is sane, that God 
never intended that people should tear at each other's 
throats like wild beasts. There are only two ways — 
up or down. If it is down, then the race is doomed. If 
it is up, then he shall have fulfilled the purpose in- 
tended by his Creator, and enjoy to the full all the 
bountiful blessings of life." 

It is now about sixty years since the incidents of the 
above narrative. With God sixty years are only as one 
tick of the clock. With man it is a good long life- 
time. It is estimated that if a man has not made some 
progress in that time, in spiritual, moral and mental 
growth, his chances are about as ninety to ten. Take 
a look at it ; reflect for a moment ! The last war was 
the worst of all. There were instruments and means 
used to destroy human life that never were dreamed 
of. Even now the ingenuity of man, is devising still 
more murderous appliances along the same line. 
And, what is worst of all, it not only is approved but 
applauded by the public. 
Fairfax, Va. 



CORRESPONDENCE 

» — - 



DIARY LEAVES 

Tiinbcrville, Va., Dec. 12 

When we came here from Brock's Gap it was too late 

for the " white sale," but not too late for the fellowship 



which connects with such an occasion. The supper in 
the evening, before and after the missionary meeting, to- 
gether with the results of the white sale, resulted in some- 
thing like $125 for the sisters. 

The church, with its pastor, Bro. John C. Glick, and 
with its banker, recently elected county treasurer, Bro. J. 
A. Garber, is in a flourishing condition. Timberville is^aid 
to have more business than any town of its size for many 
miles around. An afternoon meeting gave the opportunity 
to discuss the development of the spiritual life, and to 
express my feeling that the congregation can put on a 
program so worth-while as to be a challenge to all the 
others. ■ Come along, Bro. Garber, set the pace, issue 
the challenge, at the beginning of the New Year set up a 
worth-while goal, and then watch grace abounding as 
the many follow in the tracks you make. 

Flat Rock, Friday, Dec. 14 

On Wednesday night, when we were thinking of re- 
tiring, the brethren came, saying that Sister Rodafcr was 
calling to be anointed. So we went, and Bro. Glick and 
myself anointed her. She was very grateful, and found 
immediate relief from heart trouble. 

On Thursday morning we two called on Sister Mary 
Shickel, at the home where she is caring for her father, 
for the purpose of anointing her. Her voice had failed 
her, and she had not spoken above a whisper for five 
weeks. We anointed for healing, and after the prayer 
Sister Mary began talking to us in a whisper; then it be- 
came louder and her face beamed with joy as she found 
herself speaking to us in her former natural tone of voice. 
She said: "Notice, my voice is returning to me. Oh, I 
knew It would!" To all of us it was a period of rejoicing 
together. In our prayers we remembered Elsie, too — Elsie, 
in the India mission field. 

Bro. J. Carson Miller, in whose home I am, was a 
student at Mount Morris College before I arrived. He 
is five years older than myself, and that accounts for it. 
He recounts how the then president of the college used to 
stand at the chapel door and shake hands with the stu- 
dents, nearly all of them, every morning after prayers 
u s they went out. The days of long ago are ever full 
of interest. 

Together we worked on a report for the committee, of 
which we are members, the Committee on Giving and 
Receiving Letters of Membership. We thought we made 
good progress on it. What the other 'three members 
of the committee will think remains to be seen. It is 
easier to work when two are together than when the 
group is larger. This gives us something tangible to begin 
with, at least. 

Cedar Grove, Saturday, Dec. 15 

The house of worship had better be called Plain Hill 
now than Cedar Grove, for a year or so ago all the 
cedars were cut down. But the brethren say they will 
grow up again, in time. 

In the home of Bro. John H. Garber the local Sunday- 
school committee met this morning, and this afternoon 
the ministerial board. I was glad to be present at these 
meetings. The Brethren seem to enjoy taking hold, but it 
will require a good deal of firing up, if we ever reach 
the limit of our ability, to say nothing of the ever-beck- 
oning opportunities at our doors. The old grandfather 
clock stands in the hallway. They tell me it was ISO 
years old, when, during the Civil War, they bought it for 
six pounds of butter. 

Edinburg, Sunday, Dec. 16 

Bro. Garber was bringing me down the valley pike, a 
splendid addition to the splendid valley, when we stopped 
in Mount Jackson. There Bro. J. Wm. Harpine turned up; 
they transferred me, and we were soon on our way to 
the pleasant home of the latter. The meeting last night 
was not large, but there was a good interest. This morn- 
ing, too, an interesting session Was held, several persons 
coming out from town. Bro. Harpine is a farmer-min- 
ister, whose dairy stands among the best. He delivers 
milk to Mt. Jackson every day in the week, early. They 
brought back memories of my early active life near Green- 
castle, Pa., when they called me at 5:30 this morning for 
breakfast. 

In the afternoon we got an extra meeting in, by com- 
ing to Wakeman's Grove. Then tonight I was taken to 
the home of Bro. C. H. Wakeman, both before and after 
the meeting at the Columbia Furnace congregation. It 
was interesting here to find in Bro. Wakeman's posses- 
sion an old Niirnberg Bible, built, I might say by the size 
of it, in 1765, at Nurnberg, Germany. 

Winchester, Va„ Dec. 18 
Yesterday, at the Valley Pike congregation, it was a 
joy to be at the high school in the morning for the open- 
ing services, which were somewhat extended for the oc- 
casion. The Fravels and Gochenours and other good 
folks here create an atmosphere that is at once apparent 
to a- visitor. To my surprise and appreciation, here they 
have a large missionary map of the world, hanging right 
up in the front in the church, just where it ought to be. 
I complimented them, for this was exceptional, and is 



sure to help create vision on the part of those who wor- 
ship there. 

We came to Winchester, for folks said we would find 
Bro. Dettra there, rather than at his home in the country. 
And here, in the city hall, behind a glass inset on which 
was painted "City Manager." we found him. This was 
one on me. I was looking for a good faithful Dunker 
preacher brother, but here I was introduced to the city 
manager for Winchester. He had all the other qualifica- 
tions, and this, too. Falling at once into conversation 
concerning the welfare of the church, I was soon im- 
pressed with the fact that he is a man of big business, 
hut one who puts his church first, always before his 
business. Imagine my delight, when, riding along the 
valtey pike, sitting behind the steering wheel, Bro. Dettra 
told me he had been driving a car for nineteen years, and 
had his first time to drive it on Sunday, except in the 
interests of the church. And when a big firm asked him 
to come into their employ, offering $7,500 as a tempta- 
tion, he said, " Men, money is not the biggest thing in the 
world. Before money come my church and my family. 
No, thank you. Can't do it." I thank the Lord for men 
of that stamp. Sure, there are many others here and 
there, but they arc the kind one likes to talk about in 
the tabic conversation, to set ideals of the very best be- 
fore the children. At the Salem congregation, tonight, of 
course, I felt free to give my best, for they knew what 
the best is already. 

Altoona, Pa., Thursday, Deer 20 

From Winchester, Va., I went to Hagerstown, Md., 
where, according to previous arrangement, Wednesday 
night was given to a missionary meeting. The folks are 
planning to use "The First-Work of the Church, MIS- 
SIONS," as a study book soon. I spent the after part of 
the night and forenoon of today in Waynesboro, calling 
on the Mitchells and the Moores and Oilers and Sollen- 
bergers, and then caught the train from Hagerstown to 
this place, where I have come to meet Sister Ida Him- 
melsbaugh. She dwells with her sister here in Altoona, 
and it was a mutual joy to see each other. Sister Him- 
mclsbaugh has been a personal friend on many occasions 
in our home at Ankleshwer, India. Her foot is giving her 
much pain, and we can but trust the Lord for the best. 
We talked of Emmerts and Rosses and Pittengers and 
Arnolds and others, as well as the work and the workers 
now on the mission fields. 

Mt. Morris, III., Dec. 22 

I just missed the through train at Altoona Thursday 
night, and so took the next one, a day coach, going by 
way of Columbus. Thus I had a long trip, but reached 
Chicago, went to Rethany, and finally with "Our Bob" 
reached Elgin before bedtime. Then' this forenoon I 
spent in the offices of the Mission Board, and round about 
the building, came to Aurora, and reached home by ten 
o'clock tonight. It always feels good to get hack home 
for it is at some sacrifice I go from church to church, tell- 
ing the story. However, the folks tell me I can make no 
larger contribution for the mission work at the present 
moment, and I always want to do my best while I live. 

I have certainly enjoyed the fellowship of the Brethren 
in Virginia. And I believe for them that their part of the 
evangelization of the world will so challenge them that 
few will fail the test* The college is the center of life. 
Half the students of the college come from within a radius 
of twenty-five miles from .the college as a center. With- 
in a radius of thirty miles are nineteen congregations of 
the Brethren, with approximately 5,500 members. Six 
of these have full-time pastors, who have prepared them- 
selves in Bridgcwater College. I feel the outlook for the 
college is bright, so also the outlook for the church. Influ- 
ence of the Brethren is great in the Valley. May that in- 
fluence extend farther and farther, even to the ends of 
the earth. t t Wilbur B. Stover. 

WELLS BY THE WAYSIDE 
Chico, Calif., Nov. 29 to Dec. 5 

The trip from Sunnyside, Wash., via Wallula and Port- 
land, to Chico. Calif., took two nights and a day and a 
half. According to previous arrangements, Eld. J. W. 
Barnett, pastor of the Portland church, met us at the 
depot at Portland, between trains, and we had quite a 
pleasant visit together. At one time we had thought of 
stopping off there for a few days, but as the weather was 
rainy, and the opportunities for sight-seeing discouraging, 
we decided to go on. We traveled on the renowned 
"Shasta Route," but it happened that the most inter- 
esting part of the trip was made during the night, and 
so we missed seeing Mounts Shasta and Whitney and 
Shasta Springs, for which we were sorry. As we were 
passing through Albany, Grants Pass and Ashland we 
thought of the Brethren, and would have desired to stop, 
but time did not permit. 

After this tiresome journey it felt good to be welcomed 

into the home of our cousins, George and Maud Gnagey 

Swisshelm, in Chico, just in time to sit down to a roait 

duck Thanksgiving dinner, to which we did justice. Our 

(Continued on Page 30) 



28 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



Notes From Our Correspondents 



CALIFORNIA 

Belvedere.— Wc have just closed a very successful meeting with 
Brother and Sister Bra. D. Diaz as evangelists. Bro. Diaz preaches 
the Word with power and without fear or favor. His good wife 
sings gospel messages. Brother and Sister Diaz were both con- 
verted from the Roman Catholic church. They are true Protestants 
and love their Lord. His messages arc evangelistic. He magnifies the 
Lord Jesus. Eight souls have heen baptised, These messages drew 
large crowds and awakened our people to a renewed study of the 
Word. The following week after the close of the meeting Bro. 
Diaz gave a pageant for four nights in the Baptist church, which 
created a great deal of interest in the community. The pageant is 
principally lectures on Catholicism in the light of prophecy, il- 
lustrated with the altar, confessional, etc. The people of the com- 
munity have a greater interest in the true church of Christ since 
these addresses. On Dee. 23 three converted Filipino boys were 
at the morning service and each testified. It is thrilling to hear 
them tell of the conditions of subjection under Catholicism from 
which they have heen delivered. They exalt the Christ in these 
testimonies. At the close Sister Diaz asked to say a few words. 
These words of testimony and pleading for the Gospel to be taken 
to her people and the putting of the message of Jesus to the 
salvation of the soul, above everything else, was touching. At the 
conclusion of these appeals an invitation was given. One came (o 
be reclaimed and another gave her heart to the Lord. A number 
more arc counting the cost.— J. E. Steinour, Los Angeles, Calif., 
Dec, 29. 

Covins Sunday-school under the direction of Mrs. J. P. Overholtzer, 
superintendent of the Junior Department, gave a most excellent 
program Dec. 23, at which time an offering was lifted for the 
Children's Home Society in Los Angeles. Canned fruits and 
vegetables, nuts and clothing were donated also. A Christmas treat 
was given the Sunday-school children in the morning. Dec. 28 the 
church met in council with Bro. G. F. Chombcrlen in charge. He 
was reelected presiding elder; Bro. E. E. Shaver, clerk; Bro. 
S. W. Funk, church correspondent; Sister Eulala Overholtzer, " Mes- 
senger " agent.— Mrs. Chas. Fesler, Covina, Calif., Dec. 29. 

Fresno church met in council Dec. 10, with Bro. A. 8. Brubakcr 
presiding. We rendered a Christmas program on Sunday even- 
ing, Dec. 23, to a crowded house. The program was much ap- 
preciated by all and the real Christmas spirit was manifest. The 
Primary and Junior Departments received a treat at the close of 
the program.— Amanda Crump, Fresno, Calif., Dec. 23. 

Live Oak. — Some time ago a committee was appointed to investigate 
the condition of our local church with the view of securing a pastor. 
The fact was revealed that the hindrance to a united effort in that 
direction was the $520 indebtedness on the building. An organized 
campaign was put on and with the help of the Sisters' Aid Society 
wc went over the top. Final arrangements for a pastor are not yet 
completed. Dec. 23 a Christmas program was rendered by the Sun- 
day-school at which time an offering of $32.71 was taken for the 
General Mission Board. The same evening the deputation team of 
La Verne College gave a program on Stewardship. Dec. 24 they 
gave the program in the United Brethren church here. These mes- 
sages stirred us to a keener sense of our obligation and responsi- 
bility for the things God has entrusted to us. On the afternoon of 
Christmas Day Bro. S. F. Sanger, of Empire, spoke to us on the 
History of the Church of the Brethren. Although seventy-five years 
old he is still active in the ministry and has some vivid recollec- 
tions of the activities of the church. He also spoke of the first love 
feast held in America, in the Gcrmantown church. Pa. He concluded 
his message with the statement that if through the years since the 
first love feast all had been as willing to labor and sacrifice and live 
lives of devotion as they, great things might have been done. At 
6: 30 P. M„ we met in communion service, with Bro. Sanger of- 
ficiating. Quite a number from Chico were with us. These seasons 
ol inspiration have given us great courage to press on.— Albert Crites, 
Live Oak. Calif., Dec. 26. 

COLORADO 

Denver church met in council Dec. 20. Bro. Ira Sollenberger was 
chosen elder for another year; Bro. Edison Noa, "Messenger" agent; 
the writer, correspondent. We had one of the best programs for 
the children wc ever had, also a splendid pageant, " The Star of Hope," 
i-ith Mrs. S. A. Miller as director. Our elder. Bro. Conrad Fitz, has 



not been very well, but is better at this 
ings and Bible lessons as well as all other 
attended.— W. R. Cline, Denver. Colo., Dec. 



ing. Our 



27. 



Sterling.— Since our last report wc have had some special programs. 
While our pastor attended District Meeting our missionary commit- 
tee prepared a nice program which was given at the regular preach- 
ing hour. On Sunday evening before Thanksgiving we enjoyed a 
program by the children. Dec. 5 we held our quarterly communion 
services with Bro, Edwards presiding. We were glad to have a 
number over from the Haxtum congrega^on to enjoy the feast with 
us. Dec. 12 was our quarterly business meeting. We received two 
letters of membership. F. G. Edwards was chosen elder; Ollic UI- 
lery, clerk; Delia Edwards, correspondent; R. S. Thompson, "Mes- 
senger" agent; Charles Ullery, superintendent; Ollic Ullery, Chris- 
tian Workers* president. Dec. 23 the entire evening was given to a 
Christmas program which closed with a pageant bringing out the 
real spirit of Christmas. We are now looking forward to our re- 
vival meetings which will begin Jan. 27.— Ollie Ullery, Sterling, Colo., 
Dec 27. 

FLORIDA 
Sebring.— Since our last report several ministers have found their 
way to Sebring. Among the number we name Geo. E. Stone, Jos. 
H. Murray, and D. E. Miller. The latter, accompanied by Sister 
Miller, came through in his car. Sister D. L. Miller is here for her 
second winter. Accompanied by one of her sisters and their aged 
mother. Sister Lydia E. Taylor, of the Dress Reform Committee, 
is spending her first winter in the State. We are making use of 
a number of the workers coming among us, some of them render- 
ing excellent services at the outlying points in which we arc in- 
terested. The field is large enough to furnish work for as many 
more willing and efficient helpers. Our vision from the southern 
angle, is now becoming State-wide, and the openings arc many. 
Christmas was a glorious season for the more than 200 members 
and their children in this community. Bro. D. H. Zigler preached 
one of his strong sermons Sunday morning, Dec. 23, and in the 
evening the Christmas Sunday-school program was rendered. The 
offering for world-wide missions, along "with the offering lifted 
the previous Sunday, for the same purpose, amounted to over 
$200. On Christmas Day an inspiring service was held, with Bro. 
D. E. Miller delivering a very appropriate and inspiring address. 
Our Bible Institute, to last two weeks, begins on Monday, Feb. 4. 
Brethren D. H. Zigler and D. E. Miller will conduct Bible sessions 
from 2 P. M. until A. The evenings will be occupied with special 
song services and addresses by Sister Lydia E. Taylor. Possibly 
' there may be some other addresses. For his class Bro. Zigler will 
conduct studies in the Book of Acts. Bro. Miller will give at- 
tention to lessons from the Sermon on the Mount. We are all 
looking forward to these seasons of refreshing with a good deal of 
interest.— J. H. Moore, Sebring, Fla., Dec. 27. 

IDAHO 

BoIm Valley.— We met in regular council Nov. 24. Officers for the 
coming year are: Elder. H. M. Brubakcr; assistant elder. J. J. Troxel; 
Sunday-school superintendent, Sister C. E, Sandy; president Senior 
Christian Workers. Bro. C. H. Jack. The young people's Christian 
Worker* - is progressing rplertdidty urder :he l^.'err!,^ of P. o Earl 
Flory and his efficient helpers. We recently had i mirilual r .ival 
led by Bro. J. H. Graybill of Nampa. He held forth [he Word with 



Canton.— Dec 
he pastor, Brt 
The tables 
good " eats. 



power. Hi's strong gospel messages were impressive. The church 
was strengthened and wc feel much good will result from the ef- 
forts. He and Sister Grayhill did much calling and visiting in the 
neighborhood. Bro. Austin Eiler conducted the sbng service. Wc 
began our revival with a " Community Day." A large crowd enjoyed 
the splendid program and basket dinner. Among the good things 
was a quartet of young ministers and an address by Bro. Roy P. 
Hylton. of Emmctt. The Congregational church two miles east of 
us joined in the day's fellowship. At a called council recently it was 
decided, much to the regret of the church, because of the present 
financial distress, not to support a pastor the coming year. A 
Christmas pageant, "From Many Lands," was given last evening 
by about thirty-five of our Sunday-school pupils. We are looking 
forward to participation in the Bible Institute at Nampa to be con- 
ducted by Eld. E. B. Hoff, of Bethany Bible School.— Mrs. H. M. 
Brubaker, Meridian, Idaho, Dec. 24. 

Nampa church met in council Dec. 7 to elect officers for the year: 
Elder, Bro. C. A. Williams; clerk, Harvey Snowbergcr; Sunday-school 
superintendent, Bro. Paul Blickenstaff. Bro.- E. B. Hoff will be 
here soon to hold a Bible School for us— Mrs. H. E, Bradley, Nampa, 
Idaho, Dec. 24. 

Twin Falls.— Our love feast held Nov. 11 was well attended. Five 
were received into the church by baptism in the afternoon. Nov. 
16 the church met in council. Church and Christian Workers' of- 
ficers were elected for the year: Chas. Ronk, elder; J. W. Norris, 
"Messenger" agent; Sister C. W. Ronk, church correspondent. A 
splendid Christmas program was given on Sunday evening, Dec. 23, 
to a well filled house.— Mrs. Anna Hesp. Twin Falls, Idaho, Dec. 24. 
ILLINOIS 
19 the members gave a reception at the church for 
o. Oscar Wagner, and wife, also to the new converts, 
re set in the Sunday-school rooms and all enjoyed the 
Afterward a program was given. There were some 
splendid talks by the new members in appreciation, and they told 
why they had united with the church. At the close the members 
presented a Christmas gift to the pastor consisting of various pro- 
visions. These gifts are always appreciated and mean much encour- 
agement to a pastor and wife. One has been received by baptism 
since our last report. A Christmas program was well rendered Dec. 
23. The Sisters' Aid has enjoyed a very prosperous year, having all- 
day meetings each week. Sister Pearl Rohrer was chosen president 
for another year. Our prayer meetings each Wednesday are well at- 
tended. The Sunday-school is growing in interest and attendance. 
A collection was taken each Sunday during the month of December 
for the General Mission Board— Mrs. Oscar Wagner, Canton, 111., 
Dec. 28. 

MilledgevUle.— Sept. 1 Bro. Paul Studebaker and wife took up the 
pastorate of this church. A reception was given them by the com- 
munity. Great interest is shown in the special missionary offerings. 
The Thanksgiving offering amounted to $114, Our annual council was 
held Dec. 26. At this time a church program was adopted for the 
year. The Sunday-school officers for 1924 were chosen, with John 
Gnagy superintendent. At Christmas time our Sunday-school gave 
the pageant, " Bethlehem."— Mrs. S. L. Whislcr, Milledgeville, 111., 
Dec. 27. 

Mt. Morris church will hold a Bible, Institute Jan. 8-12, a four 
day session. Excellent speakers have been secured and a large 
crowd is anticipated. For the past two years church services have 
been conducted at Haldanc, near Mt. Morris, by college students. 
A revival is being planned for that church in the near future. Bro. 
M. R. Zigler has been secured to conduct the meetings. At Grand 
Detour, a small town about twelve miles distant, services have 
also been conducted by college students for over a year. Very 
good results have been reported and the students seem greatly 
inspired with their work which the people at these several places 
very much appreciate. Early Sunday morning the "week before 
Christmas a group of college students and local young people went 
about town singing Christmas carols. This has become an annual 
event in Mt. Morris and is much enjoyed by both carolers and 
listeners. Dec. 23 a program featuring the story of " The Other 
Wise Man " was presented at the church. The story was read 
while slides were shown. Special music also was rendered. The 
white gift offering of over $140 was taken at this service. In 
the Intermediate Department of the Sunday-school forty are en- 
rolled; the Juniors number about thirty, while there are forty- 
eight Primaries and about forty in the Cradle Roll. Several weeks 
before Christmas the Intermediates enjoyed a party at the church, 
"and the Monday before Christmas a party was given for the Juniors 
and Primaries and mothers of children in these departments. About 
fifty were present and they all enjoyed a program together, then 
separated into their own departments for games, after which they 
again united for refreshments. A group of Juniors and Primaries 
gave a short program at the Old People's Home on this after- 
noon.— Lola Lizer, Mt. Morris, 111., Dec. 29. 

Panther Creek church met in council Dec. 28. with Eld. J. W. 
Switzer in charge. We elected church and Sunday-school officers 
for the year as follows: Elder, Bro. Switzer; clerk, H. Wiley; 
trustee, Joel Yordy; correspondent and "Messenger" agent, the 
writer; Sunday-school superintendent, Bro. Amos Yordy. — Elsie Noff- 
singer, Benson, 111., Dec. 31. 

INDIANA 

Arcadia.— Since our last report we have had some seasons of re- 
joicing and also some of sorrow. We rejoice because the Lord's work 
is moving along nicely, Bro. I. B, Wike, our pastor, purchased a 
residence in the suburbs of our little town and moved his family here 
Nov. 1. Since then he has been busy making some needed repairs 
and improvements and is about ready to devote his whole time to 
the work of the church. Union Thanksgiving services were held in 
the M. E. church and Bro. Wike delivered the sermon. A Christmas 
program was given Sunday evening, Dec. 23. The theme of the 
exercises was " The Life of Christ," portrayed in song and recita- 
tions. An event worthy of note was an inspirit 
feast held on the evening of Christmas Day. Br 
Sarah Kinder,- Arcadia. Ind., Dec. 27. 

Bachelor Run church recently closed a two 
campaign with Bro. Ira Long, of Colfax, Ind., i 

ccptcd "Christ; six were baptized. One had accepted Christ and 
had not been baptized. The second week of the meeting wc had a 
Home Coming and Rally Day. Quite a number of people from other 
congregations were with us. Bro. Long preached a powerful sermon 
in the forenoon and at noon dinner was served in the basement. The 
afternoon was spent in songs and readings and a talk by Bro. 
H. C. Early, pastor of the Flora church. ,It was a very enjoyable 
day for both young and old. The church met in council Dec. 20, 
with Bro. Jerry Barnhart presiding. One letter was granted. Of- 
ficers were elected for the coming year: Wm. Angle, elder; writing 
clerk, Emerson Wagoner; Sunday-school superintendent, Chas. Sink. — 
Mary Moshicr, Bringhurst, Ind., Dec. 27. 

Blissville congregation met in council Dec. 1 at the Oregon house, 
with Eld. John Markley in charge. One letter was received and two 
were granted. Sunday-school and Christian Workers' officers were 
elected for the ensuing year as follows: for the Oregon house, Bro. 
John Stutsman, Sunday-school superintendent; Bro. Alvin Price, 
Christian Workers' president; for the Blissville house, Bro. Chester 
Burch, superintendent; Bro. Oren Ruff, president. Dec. 22-28 we 
held a Bible School with Bro. Warren Slabaugh as instructor. We 
had two sessions each day and those who availed themselves of the 
opportunity were bencfitcd.^Mrs. Stella Ruff, Plymouth, Ind., Dec. 26. 

Center church met in council Dec. 22 with Eld. Edw. Stump presid- 
ing. Two letters were received and two granted. A number of the 
old officers were retained. Bro. Marvin Maurer will be our " Mes- 
senger " agent and Bro. Jas. O. Kesslcr, elder for next year. A new 
Ministerial Board was elected. We also decided to pay the minister 
who preaches for us every Sunday. We are going to adopt the en- 
velope system for raising funds for the church. The following min- 
isters were with us during the absence of Bro. Stump this fall: Bro. 
Jas. Kessler, Arthur Long and John Stump, of Pine Creek, and Bro. 
Howard li:.:k,y of North Liberty. Dec. 23 we had a Christmas 
program given by the children.— Lucy M. Burke, Waikcrion, Ind.. 



eeks" evangelistic 
charge. 



Flora church held her quarterly council Dec. 27, with Eld. H. C. 
Early presiding. Wc also had with us Eld. Wm. Angle, of Bachelor 
Run. The church and Sunday-school officers were approved by the 
church. One letter was read and six were granted. Bro. Early 
said on account of his eyesight he would have to give up some of 
his work, and decided reluctantly to close his work here about April 
I. One more has been added to the church by baptism since the 
last report. We had with us Bro. Orville Booth, of Bethany Bible 
School. Chicago, over Christmas. This was his home formerly and 
wc were glad to have him here. The children rendered a fine Christ- 
mas program on Sunday evening.— Mattic Welty, Flora, Ind,, Dec. 28. 

Mexico.— Dec. 20 a very fine revival closed at our place. Bro. Fred 
Fair, of Fostoria, Ohio, preached the Word with great power. The 
church was built up spiritually. The spirit of cooperation was very 
good. Thirty-one came into the church by baptism and three on 
former baptism. Dec. 29 and 30 Bro. Finnell, secretary of the Tem- 
perance and Purity Committee, gave us three lectures. Two were 
illustrated. Offerings were taken for the support of the work. On 
Monday he visited the high schools of the community and gave his 
illustrated lecture on the effect of narcotics. The various activities 
of our church are moving along nicely. The Sunday-school is re- 
organized for the year, the officers and teachers, for the most part, 
being the same.— Ira Fisher, Mexico, Ind., Dec. 30. 

Middle town.— Wc had the pleasure of listening to Bro. Bagwell, of 
North Manchester, last Sunday. His subject was, " The Essence of 
Christian Living," and what it takes to he a Christian. We hope he 
will come again and that others may remember us likewise. Our 
Sunday-school is not growing in numbers but the interest seems to 
be good. Next Sunday we elect officers for the ensuing year. We 
expect Bro, Werking to be with us if the weather is favorable.— Florida 
J. E. Green, Middletown, Ind., Dec. 26. 

Pleasant Hill church enjoyed a spiritual love feast Dec. 23. Wc 
were glad to have with us Bro. Edw. Kintner, of North Manchester, 
who preached two inspiring sermons. Because of inclement weather, 
not many visitors were present. Bro. Kintner officiated at the 
evening service, assisted by Bro. Ellis Wagoner and the home min- 
isters. Our Sunday- school has an enrollment of 115, with Bro. Roy 
Gump, superintendent.— Gertrude Gump, Churubusco, Ind., Dec. 27. 

South Bend.— First church met in council Dec. 10 to elect church 
and Sunday-school officers for the coming year. Bro. Kreider was 
reelected elder; Bro. R. E. Burger, clerk; president of Christian 
Workers' Society, Bro, Grant Miller; "Messenger " agent, Sister 
Bertha Price; Sunday-school superintendent, Bro. N. O. Troycr. Dec. 
16 our chorus of about thirty voices rendered a Christmas cantata, 
under the direction of our song leader, Bro. Roop. A Christmas pro- 
gram was given by the Sunday-school Dec, 21. The interest and at- 
tendance arc good at all services. — Mrs. Mary Morris, Mishawaka, 
Ind., Dec. 29.- 

Summitville church met in council Dec. 29. Our elder not being 
present Bro. Hatcher presided. Officers for the church and Sun- 
day-school were elected as follows: Bro. Surber, church clerk; the 
writer, correspondent and " Messenger " agent; Bro. Hatcher, trustee 
for three years; Bro. Dawson, to fill an unexpired term; Sunday- 
school superintendent, Bro. Surber. Our Sunday-school has progressed 
in the last year and we trust that in 1924 it will grow still more, 
though our congregation is small.— Mrs. Ella Hatcher, Summitville, 
Ind., Dec. 31. 

Union City church met in council Dec. 21, with EId.~~Ch"as. 
Flory presiding. Two letters were received and five were granted. 
An election of church officers for the coming year was held, which 
ilted in Bro. Chas. Stocksdale being chosen clerk; Bro. Geo. 



writer, correspondent. Dec. 28 

with Chas. Stocksdale, super- 

VVe are looking forward to our 

weeks with Bro. O. P. Haines 

City, Ind., Dec. 30. 

council Dec. 22, All reports were 

the coming year. Bro. Wm. Dillon 

-Rachel E. Alexander, Middle- 



Nctzley, ' " Messenger " agent; the 
we elected Sunday-school officers 
intendent of the adult department 
revival which will be held .in a few 
as evangelist.— Mrs. Ruth Ruff. Umc 

Upper Fall Creek church met in 
made and new officers elected for 
is Sunday-school superintendent, 
town, Ind., Jan. 2. 

IOWA 

Fairview church has just closed a very successful and profitable 
revival meeting of three weeks' duration. Bro. Oliver H. Austin and 
wife came to us Dec. 5 and labored earnestly, preaching strong Gospel 
sermons. Five of our Sunday-school scholars decided for Christ. Wc 
feel that we have been built up spiritually, and the community bene- 
fited. Brother and Sister Austin won the love and respect of all 
the people. The cooperation of the othur churches was splendid. The 
interest manifested was splendid throughout. Our little church here 
has a very hopeful prospect for the future. Wc have about seventy 
members and a large number of children in Sunday-school. We have 
a number of members with a vision of service who are willing to 
sacrifice for the good of the cause. Several of our young folks who 
are attending college are now home for the Christmas vacation. We 
appreciate their home coming so much. Our council was held Dec. 1. 
with Bro. Mertie Whisler as moderator. Officers fqr the vear were 
elected: Sister Flora Stickler, clerk; . Ola Tarrence, corresponding 
secretary; Bro. Gusta Ogden, Sunday-school superintendent. We 
lifted a Thanksgiving offering on Sunday following Thanksgiving 
as wc had no service on that day. Plans have been drafted and ac- 
cepted for raising funds for a new churchhousc. — Ola Tarrence, Udell, 
Iowa, Dec. 26. 

Franklin County church met in council Dec. 6 with Eld. I. L. Er- 
baugh presiding. Church officers were elected as follows: Ira Schwab, 
clerk; Blanche Pyle, correspondent; Sister Will Mason, "Messenger" 
agent. The Sisters' Aid Society has elected officers for the year 
with Sister Delia Erbaugh, president. Dec. 23 the Sunday-school 
gave a splendid Christmas program and an offering of $44.20 was 
lifted for the Emergency Fund. A Mission Study Class has been 
organized and is conducted by the pastor on Thursday 
Our Sunday evening meetings show quite ai 
Rufus Schwab, Hampton, Iowa, Dec. 28. 

Greene church met in council Dec. IS with Eld. J. F. Burton pre- 
siding. Four letters were granted. Church officers for the new year 
were elected as follows: Sister Ora Shatzer, clerk; Sister Stella 
Eikenberry, "Messenger" agent; Sister Clara Swab, correspondent; 
Sunday-school superintendents, Brethren Luther Hodgin and Edw. 
Eikenberry. Dec. 2 Bro. Geo. Studebaker, of Hampton, delivered a 
very spiritual sermon which was much appreciated. The Ladies' Aid 
has purchased new carpet for the aisles and steps at the church. Our 
church enjoyed a splendid Christmas program Sunday evening, Dec. 
23. A missionary offering was lifted of $11.39 for the General Mis- 
sion Board.— Elsie A. Pyle, Greene, Iowa, Dec. 27. 

Greene.— The Home Department of our Sunday-school averaged 
fifteen members during the year, including our branch department 
near the Little Brown church of Nashua, eighteen miles north- 
east. There are six homes of poor shut-ins whom Sister Eva Peter- 
son is working among. These mothers take much interest in 
studying lessons and reading chapters and in giving their mites. For 
the encouragement of others, one of these mothers who has ten 
children to care for, finds time to read from 100 to 170 chapters 
a quarter. These women also send their children to the Little Brow 
church where Sister Peterson has charge of a class, 
isolated members enrolled in this department from nc 
ville, Clarksville and Rockford. In this way, they 
close touch with the church. Our Home Department is 
ing. During the year $12 was sent to the General Mis; 
District : 



alteiiflai 



enings. 



We have 

kept in 
;elf-support- 

$29. 



surplus, after literature is purchased, is given to missions. We 
regret to report that two members were called by death. During 
the year, 5,108 chapters of the Bible were read.— Elsie A. Pyle, Greene, 
Iowa, Deo> 30. 

Prairie City church met in council Dec. 8, with Eld. I. W. Brubakcr 
in i harifrj. The Sunday -sotiool officers remain the same. Merlin 
Brewer was elected president of the' Christian Workers' Meeting. 
An offering was taken at Thanksgiving time and also at Christmas 
for missions, which amounted to $48.45— Gertrude Dykstra, Prairie 



r;>. 



T<M 



. ?7. 



program of special 



ices arc progressing nicely. We 
Scripture verses, etc., one half 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



29 



hour before preaching which is enjoyed by a full house. Then our 
pastor jrives a Gospel sermon. Last Sunday his subject was " Hu- 
mility." The church met in council Dec. 22 with Bro. H. F. Caskey 
presiding. He was reelected elder and pastor for another year; Sister 
Minnie Wray, clerk; Sister Meda Caskey, corresponding secretary. 
Six letters were received. Our Sunday-school is coming along fine 
with Sister Elsie West general superintendent. Not long ago the 
congregation met at the church in the way of a surprise on Bro. 
Henry Walter and Sister Bessie Caskey in appreciation of their faith- 
ful work. Bro. Walter has served as janitor for twenty years free 
of charge. Sister Caskey is pianist. A program was rendered along 
the line of service. After music and recitations, a representative 
spoke in behalf of the class. Then the pastor presented each with 
3 nice Bible. Afterward all assembled in the basement where lunch 
was served. We have missionary and temperance programs. A fine 
Christmas program was given last Sunday by the children's division. 
The offerings last Sunday for world-wide missions were $26.— Mrs. 
Meda Caskey, Lenox, Iowa, Dec. 28. 

South Keokuk church met in council Dec. 8 with Eld. H. N. Butler 
presiding. Sunday-school officers were elected for six months with 
Bro. Leo Power, superintendent. Bro. D. F. Shelley resigned as church 
secretary and Sister Ida Brown was elected to take his place. We 
decided to get the new books, " Hymns of Praise," to use at our 
services. At our Thanksgiving service an offering of $73.75 was 
taken for world-wide missions. Golden Rule Sunday was observed by 
some of our members and $7 was received for the Near East Relief. 
A splendid Christmas program was given Sunday evening, Dec. 23, 
which was much appreciated by all.— Vera M. Wonderlich, Richland, 
Iowa, Dec. 28. 

KANSAS 
Monitor.— We met Dec. 1, for our quarterly business meeting. 
Church and Sunday-school officers were elected for the year. J. 
J. Yoder was reelected elder. By a unanimous vote Bro. Henry 
Stover, our pastor, is retained for another year. Our Sunday- 
school offering every third Sunday in the month is sent to the 
Emergency Fund. A program and social time was enjoyed by all 
at the church Thanksgiving evening and an offering taken for the 
Emergency Fund, An excellent Christmas program was rendered 
by the Sunday-school Dec. 23. An offering of over $71 was taken 
for the Emergency Fund. To this was added $28,. 35— returns from 
the missionary quarters given to the children in the spring. The 
Aid Society donated $50 toward the church budget. Dr. Kurtz 
recently gave his new lecture on World Peace as one of our 
lecture course numbers. It was very interesting and instructive. — 
Mrs. Pearl B. Stutzman, Conway, Kans., Dec. 31. 

Morrill church has, during this Christmas season, been enjoying 
many blessings — the Spirit -filled, helpful messages of our pastor, 
W. H. Yoder, and increased activity and spirituality in Sunday- 
school and Christian Workers' Meetings. The Christmas pageant, 
" The Lght of Men," put on by about fifty young people of the 
church, with Bro. L. J. Smith, reader, was seen by more than 700 
people. All sixteen classes of the Sunday-school gave " White 
Gift " offerings totaling $713.30. The gifts of primary classes will 
he used in different phases of missionary work among children. 
Some of the adult classes made their gifts to the Armourdale Mis- 
sion, which has recently, with the approval of the Mission Board 
of Northeastern Kansas, changed its name to that of Calvary church. 
During the recent absence of our pastor in a revival, at Beatrice, 
the pulpit was filled by Brethren A- Sawyer, J. J. Hoover and Prof. 
A. F. Morris.-— Mrs. Elma Hohbs, Morrill, Kans., Dec. 29. 

Overbrook congregation enjoyed an excellent Christinas program 
Dec. 23, rendered by the children and young people of the church. 
At our last council officers were elected as follows: Elder, I. L. 
Hoover; superintendent, Bro. O. Hoover; Christian Workers' presi- 
dent, Ruth Hoover. Our Aid Society sent a Christmas box to 
Kansas City mission. The Society was chosen " Messenger " agent 
and correspondent.— Mrs. Iva Fishburn, Overbrook, Kans., Dec. 31. 

Quinter.— Revival meetings began at this place Dec. 2, conducted 
by Bro. D. H. Keller and wife, of Minneapolis, Minn. The meetings 
closed Dec. 23 with a crowded house and splendid interest. Sister 
Keller, being an ordained minister, she, with Bro. Keller, declared the 
Gospel with power. They ware very busy while here, visiting in many 
homes and doing a great amount of personal work. As a result of 
their untiring efforts and with the cooperation of the church, twenty- 
three were baptized and four confessed Christ. The church feels 
strengthened and is ready to press onward. The Sunday-school gave 
a Christmas pageant which was well rendered. Sunday morning Bro. 
Keller held a short consecration service for the teachers and officers 
and also for the new converts. Eld. D. A. Crist is now engaged in a 
revival in the Covert church, Kans., with Bro. David Ikenberry as 
song leader.— Mrs. J. W. Jarboe, Quinter, Kans., Dec. 24. 

Paint Creek church met in council today with Eld. D. P. Nehcr 
in charge. Officers for all departments of church work were 
chosen with J. A. Strohm, elder; Anna Richard, clerk; the writer, 
" Messenger " agent and correspondent; A. C. Buck, superintendent 
of the Sunday-school. The elder elect was authorized to appoint 
a committee of three to arrange for and direct the Sunday even- 
ing service in place of the Christian Workers' Meeting. The peo- 
ple here feel the general financial depression, but we face the new 
year with all local accounts paid. Our present prospects for the 
future are promising.— Lee Dadisman, Uniontown, Kans., Dec. 29. 

MARYLAND 

San Mar. — Christmas began for the aged at the Home at San Mar 
on Sunday evening, Dec. 6, when all had the privilege of attend- 
ing the Christmas exercises rendered in the chapel by the Mt. Zion 
Sunday-school. The program, "The Song of Joy," was beautifully 
rendered. An offering of $11.29 was lifted for the General Mission 
Board. After services the annual Christmas treat was distributed. 
The mernbers of the Home were remembered with gifts from various 
organizations. The superintendent and matron as well as the aged 
greatly appreciate the interest and kindness shown the Home. We 
have had a very successful Christian Workers' Meeting in the 
chapel each Sunday evening during the past year; which was very 
helpful and inspiring to the young folks. We hope to continue the 
meetings during the coming year. Mt. Zion church will open a 
two weeks' revival in the chapel of San Mar Home Jan. 6, conducted 
by Bro. G. S. Batzel— Mrs. W. F. Cartee, Boonsboro, Md„ Dec. 29. 

Westminster Sunday-school rendered an interesting Christmas pro- 
gram Dec. 23, after which they treated the Primary and Junior 
Departments. On Christmas morning, Eld. W. B. Yount delivered 
an appropriate sermon. Brethren Carroll Royer and Harry Yingling 
have been elected Sunday-school superintendents for the West- 
minster school for the current year. Our next love feast will be 
held May 24 at 2: 30 P. M. in the Meadow Branch church. Dec. 
28 the Meadow Branch Sunday-school was fully reorganized for the 
year.— Wm. E. Roop, Westminster, Md., Jan. 1. 

MICHIGAN 

Fair-view church met in council Dec. 22 with Eld. T. A. Guthrie 
presiding. Church officers for the coming year were elected. Bro. 
Guthrie being retained as elder; church clerk, Bro. Jobe Fike. One 
lias been reclaimed since our last council. We elected our Sunday- 
school officers with Bro. Jobe Fike superintendent— Audrey Stutz- 
man, Blisfficld, Mich., Dec. 26. 

Grand Rapids.— Since our last report two have been received into 
the church by baptism and one has been reclaimed. The work here 
is growing. Our Sunday-school attendance is increasing and it 
seems as if we must make some arrangement to care for the 
children's division, as the attendance has reached as high as 100. 
The church here wishes to thank the various organizations that 
sent in Thanksgiving and Christmas boxes. We met in members' 
meeting Dec. 19, with our pastor and elder, Bro. H. D. Michael, 
in charge. Bro. M. M. Chambers was elected Sunday-school super- 
intendent; Bro. Otto Long, president of Christian Workers. So far 
as organization goes we are ready to enter the work for a n*w 
year. We had a full house in attendance at our Christmas pro- 
gram Dec. 23.— Stephen A. Weaver, Grand Rapids, Mich., Dec. 31. 

Sunfield church enjoyed an all-day meeting on Thanksgiving Day 
with a communion in the evening. A number of visitor* were present 



from Battle Creek, Woodland and Thornapple churches. An offering 
of $34 was taken for world-wide missions. On Wednesday evening 
before Thanksgiving at our fourth quarterly members' meeting, the 
following church and Sunday-school officers were chosen for 1924: 
Elder, H. W. Smith; clerk. Royal Frantz; Sunday-school superin- 
tendent. Win. Chcal. J. W. Hoover is president of the Christian 
Workers' Society. Plans arc being made to remodel our church this 
coming summer, and a building committee was elected. A White 
Gift Christmas service was held at the church Dec. 23. Minor 
Sunday-school officers and teachers have been chosen for 1924. The 
Aid Society has been reorganized. We are looking forward to a year 
of prosperity and activity along all lines of church work.— Fanny A. 
Hoover, Sunfield, Mich., Dec. 29. 

Thornapple.— Bro. Samuel Bowser, of Elmdatc, was with us at 
our regular quarterly council, in December. Officers were elected 
for the coming year. Bro. G. F. Culler was chosen as elder in 
charge. The former Sunday-school organization is retained an- 
other year, with Bro. Harmon Towns, superintendent. Preaching 
services are held every Sunday evening instead of the Christian 
Workers' Meeting. Bro. Culler met with the church in special 
council Dec. 22 to explain the new plan for raising mission funds 
suggested by our District Mission Board, which was accepted. 
Brief consecration services for the Sunday-school officers and teach- 
ers were held at the close of the Sunday-school session, Dec. 30.— 
Grace E. Mcssner, Lake Odessa, Mich., Jan. 2. 

Woodliind. -Bro R. H. Nicodemus was with us Dec. 23-30, giving 
Bible lessons oh the Holy Spirit and the Book of Hebrews. These 
lessons were presented in demonstration of the Spirit's power and 
as a result we have been strengthened and built up in the faith. 
Members from other churches helped to create an interest and in- 
creased the attendance at these meetings. An impressive con- 
secration service was also held for the Sunday-school officers and 
teachers. One has come into the fold since our last report.— Katie 
Flory, Woodland, Mich., Dec. 31. 

MINNESOTA 

Winona congregation met in council Dec. 28. at which time Sun- 
day-school and church officers were elected. Sister Nancy Schmidt 
was reelected superintendent ot the Sunday-school; David Forney, 
Christian Workers' president; J. C. Forney, elder; Sister Pearl 
Whetstone, "Messenger" agent; the writer, correspondent. An 
effort is being made to make our Aid Society an agency for real 
service.— Mrs. J. C. Forney, Winona, Minn., Dec. 30. 

Worthing ton .—Dec. 25 we held our communion service in memory 
of our first love feast held in America, with about seventy-five 
present. Our pastor gave a very interesting talk on the history 
and growth of the church, followed by the examination service. Im- 
mediately after this one young man was baptized. Our Christmas 
program was given Dec. 23. The pageant, " Follow the Star to 
Bethlehem," was presented. It was very well given and was 
enjoyed by an audience of 260 people. Dec. 30 we will have pro- 
motion exercises. A program will be given by the children, after 
which we will install the Sunday-school teachers.— Ruth Eddy, 
Worthington, Minn., Dec. 28, 

MISSOURI 

Cabool church met in council at the Greenwood house Dec. 30, 
with Eld. A. M. Peterson presiding. Church officers were elected 
for the coming year. Two deacons were elected and installed.— 
Mrs. Fred Weaver, Cabool, Mo„ Dec. 31. 

Kansas City.— First church met in council Dec. 6. All church of- 
ficers were elected for the new year: Bro. R. J. Gibles, Sunday-school 
superintendent; Bro. Theo. Stroup, Christian. Workers' president; Bro. 
C. W. Six, church clerk; the writer, correspondent and "Messenger" 
agent. Vacancies were filled in all other offices, making a good 
corps of workers for the year. Another hap been baptized since our 
last report. Our Christmas program was ■tne best that has been given 
by our Sunday-school. A pageant was rendered. The attendance was 
good. Our Sunday-school is endeavoring to raise the one dollar per 
member for the Emergency Fund. Some of the children earned their 
money by doing odd tasks, selling doughnuts, etc. Some even sacri- 
ficed Christmas things so they could give. Our church long ago 
caught the giving spirit and not only " expects great things from 
God," but will " attempt great things for God."— J. A. Wyatt, Kansas 
City, Mo., Dec. 28. 

NEBRASKA 

Lincoln church enjoyed a series of revival meetings during the 
latter part of November. The sermons were excellent and the at- 
tendance was gratifying. The love feast was held Dec. 2. The church 
met in council Dec. 6, with Bro. J. R. Smith as moderator. He was 
elected elder; Minnie Horsh, church clerk; Mrs. J. W. Plock, cor- 
respondent. Six were received by letter.— J. R. Gabel, Lincoln, Ncbr., 
Dec. 17. 

South Beatrice.— Dec. 23 was a day long to be remembered by our 
church. After a fine attendance at Sunday-school Sister Ellenbergcr 
gave a beautiful reading, a story of " The Manger," followed by a 
splendid sermon by Bro. Ellenberger on " Behold the Man." Before 
the congregation was dismissed J. D. Schock and his wife furnished a 
treat (or those present, about five hundred in all. of candy, nuts and 
oranges. Many people not able, to get to church were remembered 
in the same way. This brother and wife also installed a furnace in 
the south end of the basement of the church for comfort in the Sun- 
day-school rooms. A vote of thanks was given by the congregation 
to the donors. In the evening we had a touching message in story 
and song, " The Littlest Son." which was well rendered and much 
appreciated by a full house— Lizzie V. Miller, Holmesville, Nebr., 
Dec. 27. 

NORTH DAKOTA 

Berthold.— Eld. J. I. Michael, of Kcnmare, N. Dak., came Dec. 
22 and preached for us on Sunday morning which was appreciated 
by all. Dec. 23 we met in council with Bro. Michael presiding. 
Three letters were granted. Officers for church and Sunday- 
school were elected: Bro. G. I. Michael, elder; Sister Altha Mahugh, 
clerk; the writer, correspondent; Bro. Norman Stong, Sunday-school 
superintendent.— Bessie Stong, Berthold, N. Dak., Dec. 27. 

OHIO 

Arlington members composed of the Salem and Brookville churches. 
met in council Dec. 28, with the joint elders, Enos Brumbaugh and 
John Fidler, present. We reorganized for the coming year. The 
writer took charge of the work. Bro. Wm. Shank was reelected 
church clerk and Sunday-school superintendent; Bro. Albert Marshall, 
trustee A pastoral committee "also was elected. The writer was 
chosen president of the Christian Workers' Meeting, "Messenger" 
agent and correspondent. An application was on file for church lines 
to be drawn between the Salem and Brookville churches to make 
Arlington a separate organization. Elders Sylvan and L. A. Book- 
waiter, members of the Ministerial Board, took charge of the work 
to ascertain the wishes of the Arlington group of members. Eld. 
Chas Flory was also with us and rendered good service. A number 
of members from both churches were present.— T. A. Robinson, Brook- 
ville, Ohio, Dec. 31. 

Ashland City.— Since our last report four have been received 
into the church by baptism. Our Sunday-school is progressing nicely. 
For the closing of Sunday-school the juniors gave a missionary 
exercise, after which a missionary offering of $57.BO was taken. 
The children and young people gave a Christmas program which was 
greatly enjoyed by all.-Mrs. S. G. Greyer, Ashland, Ohio, Dec. 28. 

Bradford.— Dec. 9 our new church was dedicated. In the fore- 
noon the Sunday-school was divided into two sections, the older 
people being taught by Galen B. Royer, Jr.. and the children by 
Sister Bessie Flory. Despite the fact that it was rainmg hard 
the church was filled. The forenoon sermon was ably delivered 
by Bro Otho Winger, of Manchester College. He also delivered the 
dedicatory sermon in the afternoon. Our revival services began 
in the evening with Bro. J. Oscar Winger, of North Manchester, Ind., 
evangelist. He is a forceful speaker and gave us seventeen inspir- 
inK messages. Twenty-seven have been baptized and two await the 
rite Dec 27 the Glee Club of Manchester College gave us a very 
fine' program, which was much appreciated by the large audiencc.- 
Myrtle Waggoner, Bradford, Ohio, Dec. 29. 



Circlevllle.-Eld. J. W. Fidler, of Brookville, Ohio, began a series 
of meetings for us and contiuued for twelve evenings. Eight of these 
evenings were cither snowy or rainy, yet the attendance and in- 
terest were good. Two were received into the church by baptism. 
Another was baptised before the meetings began. We held our 
business meeting Dec. 30 and reorganized our Sunday-school for 
another year. The attendance at the church services and at Sunday- 
school is increasing.— C. V. Coppock, Circleville, Ohio, Dec. 31. 

Fostorla church met in council Dec. 21, with Eld. David Byerly 
presiding. Sister Villa Witmore was elected Sunday-school super- 
intendent; Villa Witmore, church clerk; Sister Vera Ingle, church 
correspondent; the writer, " Messenger " agent. The Young Peo- 
ple's Conference of Northwestern Ohio met at this place some time 
ago, There was a good attendance of our young people from the 
different churches and all seemed to enjoy the meeting. Our 
pastor, Bro. Fred L. Fair, has returned from Mexico, Ind., where 
he held a three weeks' series of meetings. We are glad to have 
him in his accustomed place. During his absence Bro. H. V. Thomas, 
of Green Springs, filled one appointment. He gave us a very help- 
ful and instructive sermon. Bro. Walter Landis, of Lima, Ohio, 
Was also with us one Sunday and preached a very acceptable ser- 
mon.— Lydia Dickey, Fostoria, Ohio, Dec. 29. 

Georgetown.— A called council of the Ludlow and Salem churches 
was held at the house in Potsdam Dec. IS, in order to perfect a new 
organization at this place. The reports were accepted and we were 
set apart as a separate congregation. Eld. Samuel Snell opened this 
meeting with appropriate remarks and Eld. Newton Binkley presided. 
We organized our new congregation Dec. 22 under the direction of 
Eld, Newton Binkley. Elders Wm. Minnich, A. Bucklew, Edw. Miller, 
S. A. Blessing, Enos Brumbaugh and G. W. Minnich were present 
also, Our' organization will now be known as the Georgetown con- 
gregation. Officers recently elected were retained: Sylvan Book- 
waiter, elder; Harry Dclk, church clerk; Jennie Eikenbcrry, " Mes- 
3cngcr " agent. Auditing, finance, missionary and temperance com- 
mittees were elected. Our house will be arranged for communion 
services in the near future. Our young people gave a Christmas 
program Sunday evening after which Bro. Walter J. Heiscy gave a 
very interesting talk on China.— Mary Weiscnbarger, Laura, Ohio, 
Dec. 25. 

Middle District church met in council Dec. 20 with Eld. L. A. Book- 
waiter presiding. One letter was received. Officers for the coming 
year were chosen with Bro, Marley Karns, Sunday-school superin- 
tendent; Sister Catherine Huff, president of the Christian Workers' 
Society. Bro. R. N. Leatherman, of West Alexandria, Ohio, will con- 
duct our series of meetings beginning Jan. 14. Our minister, Bro. 
Harlcy Coppock, has just returned from conducting a two weeks' 
scries of meetings at Casscll Run, down among the mountains. Ten 
were willing to accept their Savior. He feels there is indeed an op- 
portunity among these people for some one who can devote his en- 
tire time to the work.— Bertha Coy Karns, Dayton, Ohio, Dec. 27. 

Now Carlisle church has enjoyed many rich blessings since our 
last report. Our love feast was held Oct. 20, A 10 o'clock meeting 
was enjoyed by a large crowd. Bro. D. M. Garver, of Trotwood, of- 
ficiated, assisted by Bro. Fidler, of Brookville, Sunday morning 
Bro. D. M. Garver gave us a very interesting address. Nov. 23 we 
held our regular business session with'Eld. D. S. Dredge presiding. 
A number of officers were elected, with Bro. Guy Studcbaker, Sun- 
day-school superintendent. An educational board was also chosen. 
On Thanksgiving Day Bro. J. Howard Eidemillcr preached a very 
practical sermon. The offering was $48, Dec. 2 in the altcrnoon Bro. 
J. A. Robinson, of Pleasant Hill, gave a lecture on " Problems of 
the Home." Dec. 18 Bro. H. K. Ober, of Elizabethtown, Pa., gave 
the first number of our lecture course. His subject was " Life 
Choices," A large audience enjoyed the message. Dec. 2J Bro. Jacob 
Gingrich, of Pennsylvania, delivered two interesting messages. In 
the evening the three divisions of our Christian Workers' Society 
gave a joint Christmas program. Our revival meetings will begin 
Jnn. 6 with Bro. D. R, McFaddcn, ot Smithville, in charge —Nellie 
M. Evans, New Carlisle, Ohio, Dec. 26. 

Red River.— Dec. 23 we had a short Christmas program, after which 
officers for the coming year were elected: Sunday-school superin- 
tendents, Bro. Neal Kreidcr and Guy Coatc; church trustee, Bro. 
Samuel Root; correspondent, Fannie Smith. We will have an instal- 
lation service (or the teachers and officers of the Sunday-school 
Sunday morning, Dec. 30.— Fannie Smith, Bradford, Ohio, Dec. 27. 

Springfield.— At our last regular members' meeting, presided over 
by Eld. D. M. Garver, all Sunday-school officers were elected for the 
coming year. Five letters were received. Our revival meetings, con- 
ducted by the pastor, Bro. C. L. Wilkins, began Oct. 30, and closed 
Nov. 11. Much rain hindered the attendance, but the gospel mes- 
sage was given with power each evening and proved a blessing to all. 
Just previous to these meetings one was received by baptism. World 
Temperance Sunday was observed with a short program followed by 
a stirring address by Bro. Wilkins. The offering of the day was for 
the General Temperance and Purity Committee. Our communion 
was held Nov. 17, an evening service. Bro. Garver officiated, as- 
sisted by' Bro. Wilkins. Sister Zuina Hccstand, District Sunday School 
Secretary, gave us a helpful message Dec. 9. Dec. 16 Eld. D. M. 
Garver favored us with a much appreciated sermon. Dec. 23 we had 
a Christmas program of appropriate songs and recitations by the 
children with special music by the young people of the Sunday- 
school. The Christmas message by our pastor and an offering for 
District missions closed the service which was enjoyed by all.— Alice 
C Mumaw, Mogadore, Ohio, Dec. 26. 

OKLAHOMA 

Thomas church met in business session on Christmas Day. The 
members brought their lunch and enjoyed an all-day service. The 
following officers were chosen for the year: Bro. Ed R. Herndon, 
elder; Bro. B. F. Stutzman, Sunday-school superintendent; Sister 
Addic Ennis, president of the Christian Workers' Society. Our young 
people's meeting is progressing very satisfactorily under the leader- 
ship of Miss Minnie Hutchinson.— H. W. Forney, Thomas, Okla., Dec. 

OREGON 

Newherg church met in council Dec. 22 with Eld. S. P. Van Dyke 
presiding. Election of officers for the coming year resulted as fol- 
lows: Elder, J. W. Bamctt; assistant, J. A. Reed; clerk. Sister Elsie 
Reed- trustee for three years, John Prescr; "Messenger" agent and 
correspondent, Eliza J. Moore; Sunday-school superintendent, the 
writer; Christian Workers' president. Lulu Burkett. It was decided 
to have a called council Dec. 28 to hear the report of the deacons 
on the church visit and to decide on holding a love feast.— Eliza J. 
Moore, Newberg, Ore., Dec. 24. 

PENNSYLVANIA 

Conewago church just closed an encouraging series of revival meet- 
ings. Bro. Hiram Eshelman, of West Green Tree congregation, was 
the evangelist He preached twenty powerful sermons, and the 
Spirit of God moved mightily. Twenty-three stood for Christ. We 
were blessed with favorable weather and the interest was splendid. 
Both old and young have been revived and the meetings were a 
blessing to the church.-M. S. Brandt, Elizabethtown, Pa., Dec. 28. 

Germantown.-Services commemorating the 2O0th anniversary of 
the founding of the Brethren church in America at Gcrmantown 
began Dec. 23. In the morning Ex-Governor Brumbaugh gave us 
the history of the beginning of the chui 
eral of our neighboring ministers wen 
spoke of the feeling of brotherly love that exists |>e'w«n t 
us At 6-30 in the evening Proi. Adam Gcibel. the blind i 
spoke to the young folks, followed by Bro. C. C. Ellis. Both gaye 
inspiring and helpful messages. At the next service we had with 
us Bro Noffsingcr and Bro. C. C. Ellis. The former spoke on 
the present of the church, and the lattei 
we had a full day and large congregatic 
agreeable weather. Christmas evening w_ 

service of all. Just 200 years ago on this date twenty-three member 

held their first love feast. Our service was presided over b> Brc. 

Swigart assisted by Brethren Brumbaugh, Miles Murphy. Rosa 

(Continued on Page 32) 



In the after 
ith us and each one 
i them and 
! musician. 



i the future. Altogether 

lotwithstanding the dis- 

: held the most impressive 



30 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



WELLS BY THE WAYSIDE 

(Continued from Page 27) 
joy in meeting each other was mutual, as it was more than 
fifteen years since I had seen Cousin Maud, a young girl, 
at Waterloo, Iowa. We had noticed in the "Messenger*' 
that the Cliico church was going to hold its love feast on 
Thanksgiving evening, so we early found our way there. 
We met with a very hearty welcome, and it was not long 
until we were acquainted. Eld. J. J. Reppert was the only 
other visiting minister, so we divided the work of the 
evening between us. Bio. J. C. Wright is the pastor and 
elder. Forty-three members communed, part of them be- 
ing visitors. The meeting was a spiritual one. We also 
attended all the services with them on the following Sun- 
day, and spoke morning and evening to attentive audi- 
ences. This church has passed through some trying times, 
but hopes for a brighter future. 

The brethren were very kind in inviting us into their 
homes, and showing us points of interest. One object of 
great interest here is Sir Joseph Hooker Oak, said to be 
the largest oak in the world, and supposed to be one 
thousand years old. This wonder measures 101 feet in 
height. Eight feet above the ground it is nine feet in 
diameter and twenty-eight and one-sixth feet in circum- 
ference. The spread of north and south branches is 147 
feet, and the circumference of outside branches is 446 
feet. The lineal measurement of the largest south branch 
is 105 feet. Allowing two feet to each person, 7.885 per- 
sons can stand under the branches of the tree. Several 
of the lowest limbs are supported by concrete piers. This 
oak stands in Bidwell Park, and is carefully protected. 
As it is annually inspected it bids fair to live centuries 
more. 

Another wonder is seen at Richardson Springs, a sum- 
mer resort, where one is invited to drink of five different 
kinds of water, from that number of springs. These are 
claimed to possess medicinal qualities, though far from 
being palatable. We were also taken to see a gold dredg- 
er at work, and were allowed all over and through it, but 
were not given any gold. A number of these giant ma- 
chines are at work day and night, every day in the year, 
at different places in the State, and hundreds of acres of 
land, to a great depth, are fed through them and the 
gold extracted. We were told that the machine we saw 
was capable of removing 100,000 cubic yards of ground 
a month, but that it was among the smallest. We were 
interested to see trees loaded with oranges, grape fruit, 
olives, persimmons, and black walnuts, while the figs, 
grapes, and almonds were about past. The beautiful palms 
were to be seen everywhere. 

San Francisco, Calif., Dec. 5 to S 

A pleasant ride of about seven hours brought us 4o 
San Francisco. Though the train was late, we were so 
glad to be met by Cousins William H. and Lillian K. Boger, 
and autoed to their home, at 1668 Washington Street. 
Bro. W. B. Stover has already written of the wonderful 
giant ferry, "Contra Costa," which carries whole trains 
across the bay at a time. This is the largest ferry in the 
world. I was told that the depth of this bay is too great 
to be bridged — hence the ferry. One is surprised at the 
tremendous carrying capacity of this ferry. It is rumored 
that attempts to bridge this bay are going to be made. 

Several large ferries ply on regular schedules between 
Oakland and San Francisco, and many thousands of people 
are carried back and forth daily. I will not endeavor to 
give a description of this great and rapidly-growing city, 
which is one of the important gateways for the commerce 
between the United States and the Orient. Cousin pointed 
out the extent of the burnt area at the time of the earth- 
quake, and it is astonishing to see how all has been re- 
built with greatly improved structures during the years 
intervening. San Francisco, like Seattle,- is built on very 
hilly land, and one almost holds his breath as he rides 
up and down the steep streets on the street cars, for fear 
the motorman will lose his control of the car. 

A ride on a large automobile through Golden Gate Park 
is an event never to be forgotten. This trip takes one 
along San Francisco Bay, to the Golden Gate and the 
Pacific Ocean, and to the Cliff House, and over many miles 
of fine roads winding through the varying scenes of the 
park. This was our first view of the Pacific, and we were 
almost overawed as we took in this wondrous sight. 

One day the cousins took us southward, down over the 
peninsula, as far as San Jose, nearly fifty miles, through 
a very fine fruit country and through a number of grow- 
ing towns. One of these was Palo Alto, the seat of Leland 
Stanford University, one of the best in the country. The 
chapel, or church, erected here as a memorial to Mr. 
Stanford, is one of the finest on the continent. Almost the 
entire interior and much of the exterior is finished in the 
finest inlaid mosaics, many of them representing Bible 
scenes. 

On our homeward way we stopped at Sunnyvale with 
Mr. and Mrs. A. H. Gordon, over night. Mrs. Gordon's 
maiden name was Emma J. Hunter, and just fifty years 
ago she was teacher of the Walter School, Jenner Town- 
ship, Somerset County, Pa., and I was one of her pupils. 
During this half century we had never seen each other, 
but had some little correspondence. It was, indeed, a 



great pleasure to both of us to converse together, once 
more, of the good olden days and the years that lie be- 
tween then and now, and for the time being our joy seemed 
to be full— especially so, when, out of a full heart, she 
told me that I was always an industrious, obedient and 
dutiful pupil. Time has dealt kindly with the Gordons, 
and they are living a retired life in a beautiful suburban 
home, and, despite their years, are still actively engaged 



in church and community work. 
Buena Park, Calif., Dec. 27. 



Jerome E. Blough. 



Leroy Fisher. 



MINISTERIAL MEETING 

The Ministerial Association of Northern Indiana met at 
the Pine Creek church Dec. 15, with twenty-two members 
present. Eld. David Metzler gave a very interesting and 
instructive talk on "The Minister's Life That Wins." So 
interesting was his talk that- the forenoon session was 
taken up entirely with it and the discussion that followed. 

In the afternoon the following organization was* effected 
for 1924: Chairman, Eld. David Metzler; Vice-Chairman, 
Eld. C. Metzler; Secretary-Treasurer, Leroy Fisher. 

The speakers for the afternoon not being present, local 
problems were discussed. The subjects to have been 
taken up in the afternoon will be used at the next meet- 
ing which will be held in the Elkhart church the third 
Saturday in March. 

Milford, Ind. «^ 

ANYTHING IN A NAME? 

" Mama, there are two Daniels up at Daily Vacation 
Bible School," exclaimed our four-year-old Daniel, "and 
three Davids," put in his twin brother, David, one day as 
they came in from Vacation Bible School. 

"Well, tell me 'all of their names,'" I replied, wonder- 
ing if they really knew what they were talking about. 

"David Kreps, David Hileman Miller and David in the 
picture, what killed a Hon," promptly responded David. 
"And Daniel Joseph Miller and Daniel in the picture with 
the lions, but the angel didn't let them hurt him," piped up 
his brother. 

The other day David brought to me the picture of David 
killing a lion, and asked: "Mama, can I ever kill a Hon?" 

Anything in a name? Suffice it to say that the mother 
of these twins, who are every inch real Hve boys, and 
whose training presents all kinds of problems, is very 
thankful that they have assuredly the right kind of a start 
so far as the men for whom they are named is concerned I 

La Verne, Calif. Grace Hileman Miller. 



DAVID H. ANGLEMYER 

David H. Anglemyer was born May 26, 1864, in Union 
township, where he resided till his death on Dec. 19, 1923, 
at the age of fifty-nine years, six months and twenty-three 
days. He was the son of John and Margaret Anglemyer, 
who have long gone to their reward. One brother also pre- 
ceded him. At the age of seventeen he united with the 
Church of the Brethren and later in life was elected to the 
deacon's office. In 1898 he was chosen as a minister of 
the Gospel. He also served his church as presiding elder 
many years previous to his affliction. 

On June 8, 1884, he was united in marriage to Catherine 
Moyer. No children were born to them, but a niece, Lucy 
Moyer, stayed in their home till her marriage to Milton 
Mishler. She died July 2, 1916. In 1897 Mrs. Anglemyer's 
cousin, Anna Nusbaum Culp, was suddenly called from'fhis 
life, leaving the family without a mother. The baby son 
was then taken into the Anglemyer home where he re- 
ceived all the love and care ever given to any child, and in 
later years he was legally adopted. 

Bro. Anglemyer is survived by his wife and son, one 
brother, and one sister and other relatives and friends 
who will miss him and yet be happy in the knowledge 
that his long and sad affliction is now over and that he is 
enjoying the rest he so long was waiting and wishing for. 

A month ago he asked for a communion service in his 
home because he was unable to be at the church. He 
also received the anointing service at different times dur- 
ing his illness. Services at the Union Center church by 
Bro. P. W. Stuckman, assisted by Bro. David Miller. 

Nappanee, Ind. Henry Wysong. 



SISTERS' AID SOCIETIES 



Z] 



CHERRY GROVE, ILL-Officers: Sister Rose Shidlcr, President; 
Sister Lillie Finifrock, Vice-President; Superintendents, Sisters Addie 
Sword and Delia Weaver; Secretary-Treasurer, the writer. Number 
of meetings, 17; all-day, 12; average attendance. 9. Amount in 
treasury from last year, $56.82; receipts, $79.74; paid .out $75 78- 
balancc, $60.78.— Minnie Puterbaugh, Lanark, III., Dec. 27. ' 

McPHERSON, KANS.-Numbcr of meetings held, 43; average at- 
tendance, 10; amount received by quilting and making comforters, 
$17.95; rent from A]d Society House, $125; membership dues $7.70- 
hcld two dinners and two sales from which we cleared $188.41; mak- 
ing coverings, $9-70; donations and offerings. $2.34; lor mending 
athletic suits. $12; aprons, $11.15. We gave to Industrial School 
of Virginia, $35; home missions. $50; Oakland Church, Calif.. $5- 
District expense, $1; flowers, 70 cents; evangelist, $15; church budget 
$100; college endowment, $100; Old Folks' Home, $25; balance on 
hand, 150. Wc also made cloihing and bedding for the poor Of- 
ficers: President. Mrs. B. E. Eshelman; Vice-President, Mrs. Henry 
Showalter; Secretary -Treasurer, the writer; superintendents, Mrs 
S. H. Wray and Mrs. A. M. Stutzman.— Mrs. J. Willard Hcrshev 
McPherson. Kans., Dec. 28. 



TIPPECANOE, IND. (Country Church).-We held 26 all-day meet- 
ings and one half day; average attendance, 8; average collection, 
71 cents. We visited 137 sick people; mended 13 pieces for needy 
family; made 94 pieces including comforter -tops; sold goods amount- 
ing to $29.20. Received from sale dinners, quilting, knotting com- 
forters, picking wool, etc., $50.15; total. $68.75. We raised money 
through members and friends to paint the church, amounting to 
$125.65. We pieced 15 comforter tops, made 2 quilt-tops, knotted 10 
comforters. Paid out, $109.70; on hand. $31.89. We have ready 
for Chicago mission, 1 comforter and 34 pieces of clothing. Of- 
ficers: Anna Cripe. President; Ella Kreager, Vice-President; Florence 
Shock, Secretary-Treasurer.— Mrs. Elmo Shock, Syracuse, Ind., Dec. 28. 

WHITE COTTAGE, OHIO (Goshen).— We held 14 all-day and 6 
half-day meetings; average attendance, 7. Our work consisted of 
making bonnets, aprons, etc., about 90 articles in all. We pieced 
12 quilt tops and quilted 10. Our birthday box contained $12. We 
also had an Easter egg offering, sold Inglcnook Cook Books, ex- 
tracts, etc. We had two sale dinners, clearing $40. We have a 
penny collection at each meeting with which we buy flowers. We 
gave three pots of flowers to the sick. We spent one day sewing 
for a family and donated nine articles "to them. We sent $1 to 
District Secretary; $27.50 to the Greenville Industrial School, and 
$200 toward parsonage. Officers: President, Birdella Thompson; 
Vice-President, Anna Slack; Secretary, the writer.— Clara Palmer, 
South Zanesville, Ohio, Dec. 27. 



MATRIMONIAL 



Please note tbat the fifty cents required for the publication of a 
marriage notice may be applied to a three months' " Gospel Mes- 
senger subscription for the newly-married couple. Request should 
be made when the notice is sent, and full address given. 



Bechtold-Beckner.— By the undersigned, at the home of Brother 
and Sister John Bcckncr, Overbrook, Kans., Dec. 25, 1923, Bro. Paul 
F. Bechtold, of Cambridge, Nebr.. and Ada Beckner, of Overbrook, 
Kans.— W. A, Kinzie, Ottawa, Kans. 

Crumley-GUIespie.— By the undersigned, Dec. 24, 1923, at the Church 
of the Brethren parsonage in Pittsburgh, Mr. Jesse M. Crumbley, 
of Alabama, and Sister Alma E. Gillespie of Pittsburgh.— C. Walter 
Warstlcr, Pittsburgh, Pa. 

■< Harter-Beuhoar — By the undersigned, in the parlor of Bethany 
Bfcle School, Dec. 26, 1923, Brother John E. Hartcr, of North 
Manchester, Ind., and Sister Emma J. Beshoar, of Lena, III.— J. E. 
Keller, Chicago, III. 

Hauger-Stewart.— By the undersigned, in Monticello, Minn.,, Dec. 
12, 1923, Brother Chas. Hanger and Bertha Stewart, both of Mouti- 
cello.— A. J. Nickey, Monticello, Minn. 

Hedrick-McClure.— By the undersigned, Dec. 26, 1923, at the home 
of the bride, in Peebles, Mr. Culler A. Hedrick and Miss Goldie L. 
McClure.— Van B. Wright, Peebles, Ohio. 

Hetrick-Aikins.— By the undersigned, Dec. 6, 1923, at the Church 
of the Brethren parsonage, Bro. Daj-rl Hetrick and Miss Ida Lillian 
Aikins.— C. Walter Warstler, Pittsburgh, Pa. 

Hudson-Kniffin.— By the undersigned, at the home of the groom's 
uncle, S. S. Brandt, of Clymer, Pa., Nov. 27, 1923, John E. Hudson, 
of Clymer, Pa., and Olive Kniffin, of Culver, Pa.— W. N. Myers, 
Clymer, Pa. 

McCartney-Rowland.— By the undersigned, at the home of the 
bride's parents, near Peru, Ind., Nov. 10, 1923, Brother Lionel Mc- 
Cartney and Sister Dortha Rowland.— B. E. Hoover, Rome City, Ind. 

MiUer-BolIInger.— By the undersigned, Dec. 23, 1923, at the home 
qf the bride's parents, Brother John Erwin Miller and Sister Mae 
Elizabeth Bollinger, both of New Paris, Ind.— J. H. Gordon, New 
Paris, Ind. 

Rager-Montgomery.— By the undersigned, at the parsonage, Dec. 25, 
1923, Brother Bert A. Rager and Sister Margaret Montgomery, both 
of Johnstown, Pa.— D. P. Hoover, Johnslown, Pa. 

Schnaithmann-Vaniman.— By the undersigned, at the home of the 
bride's parents, at Cordell, Okla., Nov. 29, 1923, Brother Charles 
J. Schnaithmann, of Billings, Okla., and Sister Anita Mildred 
Vaniman, of Cordell, Okla— John R. Pitzer, Oklahoma City. Okla. 



FALLEN ASLEEP 



Bard, Geo. Washington, son of Riley and Eunice Bard, born in 
Miami County, Ohio, died in December, 1923, aged 82 years. He was 
the third child in a family of four brothers and ,two sisters, all 
of whom preceded him except one sister. In June, 1864, he mar- 
ried Mary Pritchard, who also preceded him. There were two sons 
and one daughter. In the early years of his married life he 
united with the Church of the Brethren, remaining faithful until 
death. In 1917 he married Rebecca Kersey who survives with one 
son, seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Services in 
the Middle District church by the writer, assisted by S. M. Woods 
of the Christian Church. Interment in the Monroe cemetery.— J. R. 
Miller, Tippecanoe City, Ohio. 

Blickenstaff, Sister Barbara, nee Cripe, wife of Isaac BHckenstaff, 
was born near Delphi, Ind., May 30, 1851, and died of diabetes, 
at the home of her daughter. Sister Katie McClure, near Ccrro 
Gordo, 111., Dec. 5, 1923, aged 72 years, 6 months and 5 days. At 
the age of fourteen she united with the church and remained 
faithful throughout the years. She is survived by her blind husband, 
two daughters, one son and eight grandchildren. On Nov. 4 she 
requested and received the anointing service. Funeral services in 
our church here by Bro. B. C. Whitmore, assisted by Bro. A. L. 
Bingaman. Interment in the West Frantz cemetery. — Mrs. B. C. 
Whitmore, Ccrro Gordo. 111. 

Bowser, Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Jacob and Mary Himebaugh, 
born at Sum eld, Ohio, where she spent her early girlhood, died 
Dec. 14. 1923, aged 84 years, 10 months and 14 # days. She married 
Samuel Bowser Jan. 30, 1359. They moved on a farm near Smith- 
ville in 1869 where she has since resided with the exception of 
the years spent in the care of her aged father and mother. There 
were seven children, two daughters dying in infancy and one 
son in 1914. Her husband died July 18, 1877, leaving her to rear 
five young children and superintend the farm which she did faithfully 
and devotedly. _ Soon after their marriage she united with the 
Brethren Church and was a loyal and faithful member. She leaves 
two daughters, two sons, eighteen grandchildren and thirteen great- 
grandchildren, one brother and one sister. Services by Brethren 
Samuel Longanecker and Robert Mumaw at the Union Paradise 
church.— Mrs. Anna Ulrich, Orrville, Ohio. 

Fry, Sister Bessie Mae, born near Beatrice, Nebr., died at Bethany 
Hospital, Chicago, of peritonitis, Dec. 16, 1923, at the age of 34 
years, 11 months and 5 days. In 1893, with her parents, Frank and 
Emma Netzley, she moved to Chicago and seven years later to 
the vicinity of Napcrvillc, where she has since resided. She united 
with the Church of the Brethren at the age of fifteen and has 
served almost continuously as a teacher in the Sunday-school ever 
since, besides being active in the various other lines of church work. 
On June 12, 1912, she was married to Bro. Earl S. Fry. To this 
union were born three children. She is survived by her husband, 
one daughter, an infant son of five days and a sister, She was 
faithful and devoted to her family and friends, and will be greatly 
missed in the church here. Funeral services by the writer. Interment 
in Naperville cemetery.— W. E. Buntain, Naperville, Illinois. 

Garter, B. F., born in Timberville, Va., Sept. 23, 1853, died Nov. 
21, 1923, at his home in King William County, Va. He was the 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12, 1924 



31 



sou of Martin and Elizabeth Wine Garbcr. He united early in I0J] 
lile with the Brethren Church, being elected to the ministry in " 
1686 and soon was advanced in the full ministry. He was the 
only resident minister of the Richmond congregation, but living some 
fiftv miles from the city was unable to reach any of the Brethren. 
Services by Mr. Shcrriff. Memorial services will he held in Rich- 
mo nd.-Kathryn M. Ewing. Richmond, Va. 

Godfrey, Samuel Eugene, son of Miles and Erma Godfrey, died 
Dec 9, 1923- a Bed 2 months and 29 days. Services at'Codorus house 
by Br'o. J. L. Myers and Eld. D. Y. Brillhart. Interment in ad- 
joining cemetery.— E. H. Lehman, Dallastown, Pa. 

GUss, David H., a reader of the " Gospel Messenger " for more 
than twenty-one years, quietly passed away June 1, 1923. It can 
easily be said that his church interests were 6rst in his heart. 
Of the twenty-one Conferences since his membership in the church 
he attended eighteen. He spoke of going to the Calgary 
meeting, but on the advice of his physician he did not plan to 
go. It was the attending of the Conferences and the reading of 
the "Messenger" that was instrumental in bringing him to the 
church. While an ardent member of the First Church in Altoona 
{or twenty years his vision was large enough to see the possibility 
of mission work in another section of the city. While retaining 
membership in the mother church both he and Sister Glass were 
regular attendants and contributors at the mission until it was 
firmly established and fully organized as a working organization. 
The present Twenty-eighth Street church owes much of her suc- 
cess to the untiring fidelity of Brother and Sister Glass. De- 
ceased was born May 3, 1860, at Roaring Spring, Pa., the son of 
Daniel and Mary Glass, who preceded him- He is survived by 
his widow, Sister . Nettie Dilling Glass, and a niece. Services in 
the First church with Pastor W. S. Long officiating, assisted by 
Pastor Benjamin F. Waltz, of the Twenty-eighth Street church.— 
S. N. Brumbaugh, Altoona, Pa. 

Guiiliouma, Sister Anna, was born near Heidlersburg, Adams Co., 
Pa., died Dec. IS, 1923, aged 81 years, 7 months and 1 day. She 
was the eldest of eight daughters of Peter and Betsy Homer and 
with the exception of one, all the immediate family, including husband 
and son, have preceded her in death. She was united in mar- 
riage to Francis Guiiliouma in 1867; one son was born to them 
who grew to young manhood and was a great comfort to her while 
he lived. About forty-two years ago she became a member of the 
Church of the Brethren and she continued in this relation to her 
Master till the end of life. The last five years were spent in the 
bounds of the Akron church where she died. Funeral services by 
the writer at the home, Kenmore, Ohio. Interment in the Mogadore 
cemetery.— A. H. Miller, Akron, Ohio, 

Hultgren, Axel Ludwig, born in Sweden, died Aug. 22, 1923, near 
McPherson, Kans., aged 65 years, 5 months and 7 days. He was 
the only child of Carl J. and Anna S. Hultgren who moved to Fre- 
mont, Kans., about 1870. In 1873 he was confirmed by the Swedish 
Evangelical Lutheran Church, but since 1895 he has been a member 
of the Church of the Brethren. Services by the Brethren. Inter- 
ment in the McPherson cemetery.— E. E. John, McPherson, Kans. 

Morville, Sister Sarah Frances Edna, nee Vance, was born Dec. 
10. 1873, in Rockingham Co., Va., and died of blood poisoniug Nov. 
29, 1923, at the Peoria State Hospital, aged 49 years, 11 months 
and 9 days. Sister Morville was a faithful member of the church 
since the age of fourteen years. She is survived by her husband, 
Bro. Victor Morville, one daughter, her aged father, two brothers 
and four sisters. Funeral at the church here by Elders A. L. Binga- 
man and B. C. Whitmorc. Interment in the Cerro Gordo ceme- 
tery.— Mrs. B. C. Whitmore, Cerro Gordo, 111. 

Rellinger, Virginia/ nee Harshman, died Oct. 21, 1923, aged 59 
years, 10 months and 7 days. Feb. 16, 1883, she married Samuel 
Stryckcr, who died Oct. 8, 1919. Feb. 21, 1921, she married Amos 
Rellinger, who survives with a foster son, four brothers and two 
sisters.— Velma R. Miller, New Paris, Ind. 

Roberts, Sister Barbara Ellen, nee Henricks, wife of G. A. Roberts, 
was born near Roanoke, Woodford Co., 111., Nov. 19, 1860, and died 
of Bright's disease at her home in Cerro Gordo, Dec. 12, 1923, aged 
63 years and 23 days. She was the kind and beloved mother of 
eight children, seven of whom survive. Early in life she united 
with the church and continued faithful in service through many 
trials until the end. During her recent illness she expressed a 
desire for and received the service of anointing from which she 
received much comfort. Services in the Cerro Gordo church by 
Elders A. L. Bingaman and B. C. Whitmore. Interment in the 
Cerro Gordo cemetery.— Mrs. B. C. Whitmore, Cerro Gordo, 111. 

Roland, Harry Newton, was born in Ashland County, Ohio, died 
in Elkhart, Ind., Dec. 23, 1923, at the age of 67. years, 9 months 
and 23 days. He followed the occupation of farming in Ohio until 
he moved to Elkhart about thirty-three years ago. For a number 
of years he was employed in the New York Central shops at this 
place. He retired from active labor nine years ago. He is sur- 
vived by a son, one daughter and five grandchildren, one brother and 
two sisters. Funeral services from the Elkhart City church by Bro. 
E. C. Swihart. Burial in Prairie Street cemetery.— Mrs. W. E. Mc- 
Dowell, Elkhart, Ind. 

Roose, Mary, daughter of Jacob and Mary Dell, was born in Elk- 
hart County, Ind., died Dec. 22, 1923, at the age of 71 years, 1 
month and 25 days. She was united in marriage to Josiah Koose 
on Sept. 20, 1874. To this union were born nine children, all of 
whom are now living, also the husband, thirteen grandchildren and 
one great-grandchild. She united with the Church of the Brethren 
when eighteen years of age and has been a servant of the Lord 
for fifty-three years. She had been under the hand of affliction for 
about twenty-five years. Funeral services at the Elkhart City church 
by Bro. Frank Kreider, assisted by Bro. E. C. Swihart. Burial in 
Prairie Street cemetery.— Mrs. W. E. McDowell, Elkhart, Ind. 

Shumaker, Murry, aged 58 years, died Nov. 28, 1923, after a few 
days' illness, in the Tarentum Hospital. He was a member of 
the Church of the Brethren and very faithfully served in the oflice 
of deacon. He leaves his wife, three sons, two daughters and one 
grandson; also several brothers and sisters. Services in his late 
home, Tarentum, Pa., by the writer. Interment In the Birdville 
cemetery.— C. Walter Warstler, Pittsburgh, Pa. 

Stone, Sister Mary Ann, daughter of Henry and Mary Puterbaugh, 
was born in Miami County, Ohio, Oct. 28, 1845. She moved with her 
parents to Elkhart County, Ind., in 1848. She was united in mar- 
riage to Benjamin Stone, who preceded her in death Aug. 10, 1921. 
She became a member of the Church of the Brethren at an early 
age. She was a devoted wife and mother, full of hope and always 
willing to sacrifice her own comfort for the good of others. She 
is survived by one daughter, and two grandchildren. She died 
Nov. 21, 1923, aged 78 years and 23 days. Funeral services at the 
home by E. C. Swihart. Burial in Prairie Street cemetery.— Mrs. W. 
E. McDowell, Elkhart, Ind. 

Wandelle, Rebecca, born in Ireland, died at her home in Arcadia, 
Ind., Dec. 22, 1923, aged 75 years, 6 months and 8 days. She was 
married to Stephen. Wandelle Sept. 22, 1871. She is survived 
by her husband and four children. She was a member of the 
Episcopal church in Ireland. Services at the home by Eld. LB. 
Wike. Interment in the Brethren cemetery.— Sarah Kinder, Arcadia, 
Ind. 

Wilhehn, J. Henry, died at his home in Myerstown. Dec. 1, 
1923, of apoplexy, aged 65 years and 28 days. March 26, 1889, he 
married Ella Eberly. He was a member of the Reformed Church. 
He leaves his wife, two sons and four sisters. Services at the 
Reformed church by the pastor, Rev. J. Lewis Fluck. Interment 
in Mt. Hope cemetery.— Alice B. Royer, Myerstown, Pa. 

Wise, Bro. Levi, born near Bradford, Ohio, May 3, 1842, died 
Nov. 7, 1923. When a young man he came to Elkhart County, 
Ind., and lived near Wakarusa most of his lite. He was twice 
married, his last wife having died about fifteen years ago. He 
had his home the last years with his daughter at North Liberty, 
Ind. He leaves three sons and one daughter. He united with the 
Church of the Brethren when a boy and continued faithful until 
death. Funeral and burial at Union Center.— Christian Metzler. 
Wakarusa, Ind, 





THE BOY and THE MAN 

BY J.H.MOORE. 



Persistent requests that the series of articles in Our Young People by Brother Moore, 
formerly editor of the Gospel Messenger, be published in book form have at last been met 
in the issuing of this new book. The author is so well known that a simple announcement 
of the book will bring many orders. 

The early life of Brother Moore, lived as it was on the frontier, was full of interesting 
incidents. His natural ability as a writer and his long training as preacher and editor are 
manifest in this book. 

The Editor of the Gospel Messenger says of the book: 

"Originally intended to be only a few gleanings from the author's busy life, and not designed as 
an autobiography, it became practically that, although the story might have been told at much greater 
length. The first requirement of a book is that it should be interesting. This book meets this test fully. 
The author has had much experience in writing and, always interesting, is at his best, it seems to us, 
in matter of this kind. The fascination of his style is in its simplicity and naturalness. 

" But the book is more than interesting. It is an inspiration to perseverance in the face of difficulties, 
and to high ideals of living. It is this because it is 'The story of a greatly handicapped boy, working 
his way up to active manhood' and to a career of exceptional influence and usefulness." 

The Sebring White Way in a lengthy review says the. following: 

" The Boy and the Man " is a gripping, thrilling tale of the actual experience through which he 
lived, an autobiography of more than passing interest. It is the story of a boy handicapped by physical 
conditions and by circumstances, who, by sheer grit and unswerving faith has brought himself to a place 
of prominence in the world of culture and letters, as well as in the church which he has served so lov- 
ingly and so well for over sixty years. 

"The story is simply told, threaded here and there with the whimsical humor that sparkles in the 
Elder's conversation as well as in his writings, a tale of early struggles, wholesome hardships and awak- 
ening ambitions brought to a gracious fulfillment. It stirs with the pioneer adventures that mark the 
settlement of the middle west, and glows with the love of service." 

Illustrated with line drawings and photogravures. Bound in Cloth, Postpaid, $1.25 
BRETHREN PUBLISHING HOUSE, Elgin, Illinois 



m ^\^ T I OUR NEW 1924 CATALOG---100-Pages; Illustrated 



Brethren Publishing House, Elgin, 111. 



Mtar Money. So vim 1 A Poit»I Card Request 
B,r,,,M t A COPY FREE! 



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The Messenger should be in every home in the Brotherhood. It is the one paper that will 
keep you in touch with all the larger hopes and aims of the church. 

The price of the paper is low considering the cost of material, etc., and in comparison with 
what others are charging, for you can still get it for a whole year for only $2.00. The materials 
and wage levels are from 75% to 100% more than in 1914. The price of the Gospel Messenger 
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32 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 12. 1924 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER 

Official Organ of the Church of the Brethren 

Published weekly by Brethren Publishing House, R. E. Arnold. Gen- 
crnl Manager. 16 to 24 S. State St., Elgin, III., at $2.00 per annum, in 
advance. (Canada subscriptions fifty cents extra.) 

EDWARD FRANT2, 

L. A. PI-ATE, (Died Dec. 31, 1923), - - 

Entered at the Postofficc at Elgin, III., as Second-class Matter. 
Acceptance (or mailing at special rate of postage provided for in 
section 1103. Act of October 3, 1917, authorized' August 20, 1918. 

Notes From Our Correspondents 

(Continued from Page 29) 

Murphy, Bowman, Zook and Bricker. There were 153 communicants. 
Dec. 27 we held our Christmas exercises. Three have been bap- 
tized since our last report,— Frank P. Jester, Gcrmantown, Pa., 
Dec. 29. 

Hollidaysburg church closed the old year with a council meeting 
Dec. 26. The expenses of the year were considerable, as the interior 
of the house was painted which added quite an item. However all 
bills were paid, with a small balance in the treasury. An elder was 
elected lor 1924 and all the different departments of the church were 
organized for aggressive work. The officers arc all efficient and the 
outlook is hopeful. The Christmas service by the Sunday-school was 
fine. An offering of $22 was lifted for the Near East Relief. A 
movement is on fool looking towards securing a pastor. As the 
church here is yet in Hie mission stage, it is not prepared to shoulder 
great financial responsibilities. An effort is being made to hold an 
evangelistic meeting in the near future. We feel that a good time is 
coming. The attendance at the various services is good. In a general 
way a good feeling prevails. Our young people arc holding a weekly 
conference which is well attended and seems to be doing a good 
work.— Jas. A. Sell, Hollidaysburg, Pa., Dec. 27. 

Learners vilk church met in council Dec. 9. The following church 
and Sunday-school officers were elected: Elder, Bro. J. B. Miller; 
clerk, Bro. F. A. Laugham; Sunday-school superintendent, Bro. F. 
A. Laugham; president of Christian Workers, Bro. Essington Claar. 
We have a live young people's department of Christian Workers, 
also an interesting junior department, who meet at an early hour on 
Sunday evening for their session. Christmas services were held 
Sunday morning with quite an interesting and helpful program. An 
offering was lifted for missions.— Florine Z. Snowberger, East Free- 
dom. Pa., Dec. 29. 

Ugonler congregation enjoyed a service on Thanksgiving Day at 
10 o'clock. We bad a very helpful meeting with an offering of about 
$20, Dec. 23 our Sunday-school attendance was seventy-one and our 
offering for the Emergency Fund was $78.50, The children furnished 
a nice program in the evening to a large crowd. The Wilpen Mis- 
sion children gave a program on Monday evening, under the direc- 
tion of Brother and Sister Arthur Rummel.— Mrs. Wilson Leonard, 
Ligionicr, Pa., Dec, 26. 

Mt. Pleasant church met in council Dec. 21, with Eld. L. S. 
Kncpper presiding. Officers were chosen for the year with Bro. 
Knepper, elder. Our Sunday-school gave a very interesting pro- 
gram Dec. 23. Bro. A. J. Becghly, our pastor, is entering earnestly 
into the work at Mt. Pleasant.— Valma Barnhart, Mt. Pleasant, Pa., 
Dec. 29. 

Norristown.— The ministers of the District had their regular monthly 
business meeting in the afternoon of Dec. 10 at our church. A 
public program was given in the evening with the following brethren 
taking part: A. B. Miller and M. C. Swigart, of Philadelphia; H. S. 
Reploglc, of Oaks. Pa. A cantata, "The World's Redeemer," was 
given by a chorus of mixed voices on Sunday morning, Dec. 23. In the 
evening a children's program was rendered.— Mrs. Paul Zuck, Norris- 
town, Pa., Dec. 31. 

Penn Run church met in council Dec. 19, with B»d. C. Walter 
Warstler presiding. The church officers were elected for the com- 
ing year: C. B. Widdowson, Sunday-school superintendent; Miss 
Dora Barr, president of the Christian Workers* Society. Plans are 
now being made for a special missionary program. The junior 
Mission Study Class has completed the course of study and-Js 
now working on the reading course. Bro. Warstler gave us very 
helpful sermons. Wednesday evening he brought us a message in 
the form of stcreopticon views from the Bible. It was a spiritual 
and intellectual feast for the church and her friends. Since the 
last report one letter has been received.— Sue Widdowson, Penn 
Run, Pa.. Dec. 31. 

Philadelphia (First Church).— Nov. 25 the choir rendered a beautiful 
cantata, "Song of Thanksgiving." Nov. 23 we had a " get-acquainted 
meeting,!' for the benefit of members and members* children who have 
recently come to the city. There are many who are taking up nurs- 
ing, music and courses in our colleges and universities. We are 
anxious to get in touch with them and to welcome them to our church 
home. If readers know of such members, please inform us. Dec. 23 
we observed the White Gift service. Each department and class 
brought their gifts wrapped in white and laid them on the pulpit. 
Each member also had been mailed a white gift pledge, on which 
they marked their pledge of service and consecration. The pulpit 
was decorated in white with only a white cross in the center. At 
the close of the program a consecration service was held when we laid 
our white gift pledges at the foot of the cross. This was the best 
White Gift service we ever had. We received over $400 besides 
Christmas baskets, gifts, etc.— Mrs. Wm. H. B. Schnell, Philadelphia, 
Pa., Dec. 31. 

Spring Creek.— Nov. 11 Sister Kathryn Ziegler was with us at 
the Spring Creek Sunday-school and spoke of her work in India 
An offering of $30 was lifted for evangelistic work in India. She 
also spoke at Humroelstown Sunday-school in the afternoon. On 
the same date wc began our aeries of meetings. Bro. Ebersole 
labored faithfully, preaching the Word with power. The attendance 
was good and two made the good choice. At our Thanksgiving 
service, conducted by our home ministers, an offering of $36.68 was 
taken for relief work. Our quarterly council was held Dec. 22. Seven 
church letters were granted and two received. Bro. Chester Eber- 
sole was elected superintendent of Hummelstown Sunday-school; 
Bro. Milton Bashore. of Spring Creek. Bro. Harper Snavely was 
Jicenscd to preach for one year. Elders John Herr and J. H. 
Longenecker were present to preside over this work. The Sunday- 
school had its Christmas program Dec. 23, followed by an address 
by Bro. Walter Hartman. At the close an offering of $57 was lifted 
for the Near East.— Mary Bashore, Hcrshcy, Pa., Dec. 29. 

Uniontown church convened in council Nov. 25 at which time of- 
ficers for the new year were elected: Sunday-school superintendents, 
Geo. Wnght and Jas. Fearer; church cleflc, Quinter Barnthouse; 
Christian Worker presidents, Florence Morris and Quinter Bamthouse; 
"Messenger" agent, J. E. Whitacre; the writer, correspondent. Mis- 
sionary and temperance committees also were chosen. Our Sunday- 
school rendered a very interesting Christmas program Dec. 23. The 
house was entirely filled. .Our installation service for the new officers 
will be held Dec. 30. We were very glad for the program rendered 
Wednesday evening instead of prayer meeting by four students of 
Blue Ridge College. Our pastor, Bro. Whitacre, recently closed a 
successful revival at the Fairchance mission. Two were received 
by baptism. Our church work is moving along splendidly and we 
think at no time has the interest among the members been more keen 
than now. Our church and Sunday-school are both largely attended 
and we look forward to the new year's work with courage. At the 
close of our Christmas program our pastor was presented with a 
purse of $62 made up by Sunday-school and church members in ap- 
preciation of his services. Our collection at this meeting was for 
world-wide missions.— Orpha Collier, Uniontown, Pa., Dec. 29. 

Waynesboro.— Our business meeting was held Dec. 13. at which time 
the following officers were elected for the coming year: Elder, James M. 
Moore; clerk. Earl E. Snader; trustee, Daniel P. Good; correspondent. 



Ella Moore; Sunday-school superintendent. W. Clay Wertz. There 
were also committees appointed and various other officers chosen. 
Our offering for the Emergency Fund amounted to $292.06. Money 
thus far sent in on our Forward Movement budget is $1,500. The Aid 
Society has been reorganized, and is looking forward to another year 
of busy work. Thus the work of the church moves on. Let us be 
diligent in our part, that we may not be found wanting.— Mrs. J. M. 
Moore, Waynesboro, Pa., Dec. 29. 

Woodbury.— The Sunday-school of the Reploglc house has partially 
organized for the year by electing Bro. Paul A. Stayer, superintend- 
ent. The church also in special council Dec. 29 decided to build 
a parsonage for our pastor, Bro. J. E. Rowland. We expect him 
to take charge of the work here about April 1.— J. C. Stayer, Wood- 
bury, Pa., Dec. 31. 

VIRGINIA 
Buena Vista congregation met in council Nov. 24, with Eld. A. S. 
Thomas presiding. The business consisted largely of election of 
Sunday-school officers for the ensuing year, and choosing a new 
elder— Bro. B. B. Garber— to preside in the place of Bro. Thomas, who 
resigned. Bro. P. F. Clinc, a member of the Mission Board, was 
also present. He rendered much Help in the council and also 
preached for us on Sunday. Bro. J. F. Britton came to us in 
September and took charge of the mission. He has labored hard 
to maintain the principles and teachings Ot the plain Gospel. He 
submitted a plan whereby wc hope to become self-supporting. Our 
Christmas program was rendered Dec. 24 to a full house. Eld. I. N. 
H. Bealim was with us Dec. 25-28, giving Bible lectures during the 
day and preaching at night. He was full of his message, directed 
by the Holy Spirit. His short stay will long be remembered. One 
came forward to rcdcdicatc her life. We hope to have Bro. Beahm 
with us again during the summer. We feel much encouraged 
since the church seems to be taking on new energy, and we are 
hopeful for a great work to be done in the building up of the 
Master's Kingdom.— Bertha Barger, Buena Vista. Va., Dec. 28. 

Concord.— The church and Sunday-school made great preparation 
for the entertainment given on Christmas night. The house was 
crowded to its utmost capacity. It was said to be the best Christ- 
mas entertainment ever given here. We had a fine tree which was 
beautifully decorated. Many gifts were distributed and everyone— 
both young and old— enjoyed the program. The closing address was 
given by the superintendent.— Nannie Campbell, Midvale, Va., Dec. 31, 
Daleville.— Our congregation has enjoyed the blessings of three re- 
vival meetings held at different preaching points. Bro. Woodie held 
a meeting at Jones' Chapel, strengthening the members there. Bro. 
W. M. K.ihle, our pastor, held meetings at Pleasant Dale. Fifteen 
stood for Christ. Twelve have been baptized and three await the 
rite. Dec. 16 closed a one week's series of meetings at the Daleville 
church conducted by Bro. Ernest Coffman, of Harrisonburg, Va. Six 
stood for Christ; five were baptized. The crowds were good, showing 
great interest and cooperation on the part of members and also 
neighbors who are members of other churches. Our Thanksgiving 
service was conducted by our pastor, Bro. Kahle. He gave us a 
Spirit-filled sermon. An offering of about $400 was taken for the 
General Mission Board. Our Christmas offering of $55 also was for 
the Emergency Fund. We had services at the church Christmas Day. 
—Mrs. C. W. Huff, Troutville, Va., Dec. 26. 

Valley Bethel church began a revival Nov. 4 conducted by Bro. L. 
S. Yoder. of Weyers Cave, Va., which closed Nov. 18. Bro. Yoder 
preached sixteen sermons with power, guided by the Spirit. Two 
stood for Christ. Two have been received by letter since our last 
report. Nov. 15 we had our visit council with Eld. C. B. Gibbs pre- 
siding. The brethren with few exceptions brought in favorable re- 
ports. Nov. 17 we had our communion with thirty-four members 
present. Eld. ^. E. Ginger officiated. Nov. 29 we had our Thanks- 
giving service. The offering was $24 for District missions. We met 
in council Dec. 15 with Eld. A. A. Miller presiding. Brethren N. W. 
Bussard and R. E. Bussard were elected Sunday-school superinten- 
dents for 1924.— Mrs. Chas. B. Gibbs, Bolar, Va., Dec. 27. 

WASHINGTON 

Olympia church met in council with Eld. D. B. Eby presiding. 
Bro. E. S. Gregory is our elder for the coining year, with Bro. D. B. 
Eby, assistant. Bro. Eby has given a good many years of his 
life as overseer, but on account of his hearing we are using him 
as helper. Three were received by letter. Officers for the coming 
year are O. B. Gregory, church" clerk; Mabel Thomas, "Messenger" 
agent and correspondent; Sunday-school superintendent, Mae Rum- 
mers; Christian Workers' president, Tommie Crist. We have an 
Intermediate and Junior Class, making three departments in the 
Christian Workers. Our evangelistic service will begin Jan. 6, 
with Bro. J. O. Streeter, evangelist. Our feast this fall was well 
attended, a great many young people being present. The second 
Bible class of our Sunday-school gave a Thanksgiving program in 
honor of the aged people which was well attended and was an 
inspiration to all. After the service refreshments were served in 
the basement and a social time was enjoyed. Our offering at 
Christmas was over $43 for the Emergency Fund.— Ida McNamee, 
Olympia, Wash., Dec. 23. 

Outlook.— Dec. 9 we had Homecoming Day. The house was well 
filled and Bro. Fike gave an appropriate address. Dec. 14 we met 
in council and elected officers for the ensuing year: Bro. Wagner, 
elder; Bro. Tellie Sutphin, Sunday-school superintendent. Bro. 
Clarence Shockly was called to ministry. Dec, 23 wc had a Christ- 
mas program. Christmas night wc had a very spiritual love feast 
in memory »f our first feast in America. Bro. Fikc officiated and 
gave a brief history of the early church. Instead of having the 
usual Scripture read, two young ministers— Brethren Lorell Weise 
and Homer Partch— were asked to tell it in the form of a story. 
Opportunity was then given for testimonies. A goodly number 
told their appreciation of the efforts of our first Brethren and 
the joy there is in the service of Christ. It was an impressive 
occasion. Jan. 6 we expect Bro. J. W. Barnett, of Portland, Ore., 
to begin a scries of meetings. Our Christmas offering was $48,80.— 
Mrs. C. A. Wagner, Outlook, Wash., Dec. 26. 

Wenatchee Valley.— Our building-site in the city, the past three 
weeks, has been a scene of activity. Men and teams have been busy 
excavating for the first two units of the basement. As soon as the 
excavation is completed the concrete walls will be poured. The 
Ladies' Aid has been on the job with warm meals daily. On Thanks- 
giving day the joint congregation met at the East house. We en- 
joyed a short program by some of the Sunday-school pupils, after 
which we participated in a Thanksgiving testimonial service, which 
was followed by a short address by the pastor, Ira E. Lapp. An offer- 
ing of about one thousand dollars was given to be applied on the 
building fund. We met in business session Dec. 22. Bro. Wm. Dear- 
dorf was reelected elder and C. N. Huffman clerk. Three members 
were received by letter. The Ways and Means committee made a 
favorable report as to the progress of the building with regards to 
funds, etc. We decided to send greetings from the church to our 
children who are away at school. A committee was appointed to 
begin preparation for our Daily Vacation Bible School next summer. 
We also decided to have a series of evangelistic meetings near Easter 
time to be conducted by the pastor. Our ten-day Bible Institute is 
scheduled to begin Jan. 18. This school will be conducted by Bro. 
E. B. Hoff, of Bethany Bible School.— Mrs. C. R. Weimer, Wen- 
atchee, Wash., Dec. 27. 

Whitestonc congregation met in council Dec. 22, with Bro. C. E, 
Holmes presiding. A ministerial hoard of three members was 
elected. Bro. C. E. Holmes was elected treasurer of the church 
building committee and will have charge of all funds for our new 
church building. Our officers were elected to serve nine months 
and this will make our Sunday-school year begin Oct. 1. Officers were 
elected for the year: Bro. C. E. Holmes, elder; Sister Ruth Woods, 
superintendent. Dec. 16 Bro. C. E. Holmes talked to us on " Obedi- 
ence." Dec. 23 Sunday-school was opened with Christmas exercises. 
Bro. H. M. Rothrock gave us a good Christmas sermon and at 
the close over 100 were remembered with a fine Christmas treat. 
Our Christmas offering to the General Mission Board was $37.36. 
We are glad for the love and Christlikc spirit shown here.— Mrs. 
Freda Ries, Tonaskct, Wash., Dec. 24. 



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NOTICE 

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Brother Roscnbcrger, 1 am very glad for your book 
of " Practical Sermons. They are fine. I think your 
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Sebring, Fla., March 17, 1923. 
Dear Bro. Rosenberger: 

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I have got one of Brother Rosenberger'a Sermon books. I 
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The Gospel Messenger 



"This Gospel of the Kingdom shall be preached 
in the whole world."— Matt. 24: 14. 



"THY KINGDOM COME "— m.i>.6= io ; ub 11,2 



the stature of 



Vol. 73 



Elgin, 111., January 19, 1924 



No. 3 



In This Number 

Editorial- 
Paul's Confession (J. E. M.) ' 33 

K We Would Break the Leash, 33 

Other- World Temperatures 33 

Why God Can Not "Let Us Off," 33 

Among the Churches 40 

Around the World (J. E. M.) 41 

The Quiet Hour (J. H. H.) « 

Our Forward Movement- 
Spiritual Resources - 37 

Some Helpful Material 37 

Just to Make Us Think 37 

Contributors' Forum— 

Divine Companionship (Poem) 34 

Our Student Volunteers. By M. W. Emmert, 34 

Heaven's Financial Policy. By David Metiler 34 

The Student Volunteer Convention. By D. W. Kurtz 3S 

Faith and Life.— No. 6. By H. A. Brandt 35 

"Let There Be Light." By Galene Myers 36 

Some Impressions. By W. O. Beckncr 36 

Tho Round Table- 
How David Danced. By S. Z. Sharp 38 

Your Deferred Reward. By Geo. W. Tuttle 38 

Starving Your Talents. By Daisy M. Moore, 38 

Specials and Triweeklies. By Zach Neher, 38 

Our Father in Nature. By E. J. Smith 38 

"Keeping Him Waiting.'.' By Chester E. Shuler 38 

Homo and Family- 
Some One's Voice (Poem). By Edyth Hillery Hay, 39 

Grandmother Warren. By Bess Royer Bates, 39 

My Neighbor. By Ida M. Helm 39 

An Appeal to Our Aid Society Sisters. By Margie John Garst, 39 
Marriage. By Sarah M. Saunders 42 



we will miss the goal sooner or later? Yes, the effort 
is worth while and the struggle is not in vain. It is 
better to resolve and lose than never to resolve at all. 
To aim high and fall below the aim is better than to 
aim low and reach the ideal aimed at. 

Paul was not afraid to confess failure, for he says, 
" When I would do good evil is present with me, " 
and again, " O wretched man that I amj who shall 
deliver me from the body of this death? " Jesus found 
temptation besetting him on every hand (Luke 2: 28). 
Paul did not expect to go through life without tempta- 
tion, nor did he expect always to win. He knew that 
confession of sin and the admission of failure were 
fundamental for him who would go on to perfection. 
He was willing to confess himself to be the chief of 
sinners, and yet he was probably freer from sin than 
any of us are. Too frequently do we lose the sense 
of sin, the need of a Savior and the wisdom of " carry- 
ing on " even while confessing failure. J. e. m. 



has it yet. The key to the possession of it is fellow- 
ship with him and this is had only through the pos- 
session of his Spirit. 

The operation of this power and its effect in pro- 
moting the Kingdom of God are as certain and in- 
variable as the operation and effect of any so-called 
natural law. It is the Spirit of Jesus Christ that does 
it That Spirit does it through human spirits just 
such as yours and mine. The matter is in our hands. 

We can not create any new energy. But we can 
release a lot of it that is now held under leash by hu- 
man materialism and selfishness. 



...EDITORIAL... 



Paul's Confession 

I have just been reading the third chapter of Philip- 
pians and have been impressed with Paul's statement of 
his. own case. Verses 9, 10 and 11 seem to state his 
purpose : " And be found in him, not having mine own 
righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is 
through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which 
is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the 
power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his 
sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; 
If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection 
of the dead. " However noble his purpose he humbly 
confesses that he had not yet " attained " nor had he 
been made "perfect" nor had he as yet "apprehended." 
I don't know whether it was a difficult matter for 
Paul to confess failure, but I do know that most of 
us do not find it easy to confess our failures. To know 
one's failures means something; to confess one's fail- 
ures means more; not to give up in the midst of fail- 
ures means most. To know one's weak points is the 
first step to victory. When, in the late war, the allies 
realized that they were fighting with their backs to 
the wall, they were in a position both to ask for and 
receive help and advice. When they determined to 
fight, though driven to the wall, they were on the 
road to victory. 

Paul knew what he wanted. He wanted to get 
away from the thought of salvation through his own 
righteousness and to lay hold of the righteousness 
which is in Christ Jesus. He longed for an expe- 
rience with Jesus and was eager to taste the fellowship 
of suffering, to come in the closest fellowship possible 
with his Master.' Paul had been striving to reach his 
coveted goal. He was reaching out, moving on, strug- 
gling towards his ideal, but he had to confess failure. 
From his prison at Rome he was giving advice to his 
Philippian brethren, but at the same time he admitted 
that he had not yet laid hold of and that he had not 
always been able to do all that he determined to do. 

In his confession of failure Paul strikes a sympa- 
thetic chord with many of us. We make resolves, set 
°ur goals, struggle to reach them, only to miss the 
mark at which we aim. Each year we begin the new 
year with a new set of old resolutions, only to find in 
a few days that we are not living up to them. Does 
Jt pay to resolve anew, to hold high ideals, knowing 



If We Would Break the Leash 

Inventors do not create any new energy. They 
only discover some new way of utilizing forces which 
have always been latent in the physical universe. 

Neither can men destroy any portion of existing 
energy. But they can make it ineffective. They can 
hinder its practical use. They can and do, sometimes 
by positive action, more often by neglect or refusal 
to act, nullify great potential forces. 

So far as we know, the principle of the conservation 
of energy holds. The energy is there. It is ours to 
use, if we know how, and are willing to pay the price. 
The story of scientific discovery and invention is the 
story of the release and control of this energy. 

The Scripture teaches that the conservation of 
energy is as invariable and reliable a law in the 
spiritual world as in the natural. Jesus Christ is the 
complete disclosure of God, " the very image of his 
substance, and upholding all things by the word of his 
power. " " All authority hath been given unto me in 
heaven and on earth. 'Go ye therefore . . . and 
lo, I am with you always. " 

There is no honorable getting away from the im- 
plications and obligations of the great fact stated above. 
The resources of Infinity are ours. The energy is 
there, or here rather, if we will take it and use it. We 
can not create it, and we do not need to. It exists al- 
ready, a whole boundless universe full of it. And we 
can not destroy it. We can refuse or neglect to lay 
hold of it, and so make it of no effect. But it is at 
our call. The whole problem is one of release and 
direction. 

It is at the same time the most subtle and the most 
efficacious kind of power there is. For it is the power 
which enlists the cooperation of human wills with the 
Divine Will. It is spiritual power, which means the 
power that works in and through spirits both human 
and divine. That is the power which it is most im- 
portant to have released and put under .proper control. 

" Prayer releases power, " the electrically lighted 
motto said at the Sedalia Conference. It does. That 
is, real prayer does. The prayer which releases 
spiritual power is the prayer which is the upreach 
of the soul toward God through Jesus Christ, hunger- 
ing and thirsting after identification with his will and 
consecrating every faculty and resource to this end. 
That will both release power and set it to operating on 
right lines. 

There is plenty of power latent in God's world 
to do the work. There never will be any more because 
there can not be any more. All the spiritual power 
there is in God himself was given to Jesus Christ. He 



Other- World Temperatures 

We can not realize, it seems, to what extent self- 
interest blinds typical religious leaders, as well as the 
rank and file, to the true implications of Gospel prin- 
ciples. 

Seventy years ago a certain bishop was preaching to 
slaves. They were not very well contented with their 
lot and the good bishop's 'effort was meant to make 
them better satisfied. In glowing terms he pictured the 
heavenly joys awaiting them if they would be faithful 
in discharging their duties here. Who knows what 
might have befallen them, he went on to say, if they had 
been born to a different social rank ? God knows best 
and no doubt they were better off where they were. 
And so on. 

Maybe that sort of consolation was as helpful to the 
poor human machines as anything that could have 
been said to them, but its tendency was dangerously 
paralyzing to the consciences of the upper classes. 
Without quite realizing it the preacher was trying to 
justify himself and his social comrades in the practice 
of injustice. 

It is easy to see that now, but why is it that we can 
not see how much of the same kind of thing there is in 
our modern life? Plenty of Christian people today, 
some of the most influential leaders among them, as- 
sume that they are entitled to special privileges, while 
their brethren and neighbors are the helpless victims of 
the iniquities of our taxation and industrial systems. 

Oh, well, some people wouldn't know how to get 
along even if they had a fairer share of life's oppor- 
tunities! It may be just as well as it is! Heaven will 
be all the sweeter for them ! 

Possibly so. And hell all the hotter, too, for some 
other folks. < 

Why God Can Not " Let Us Off " 

"Don't you think God will 'let us off' since he 
loves us so much?" 

That is substantially the question, sometimes felt 
rather than spoken, which discloses a common misap- 
prehension of the spiritual realities. It isn't a matter 
of letting anybody off. The principles of salvation 
or spiritual healthfulness are what they are because 
they could not be anything else. To disregard them is 
to invite the inevitable consequences. And just be- 
cause God loves us so much he can not " let us off." 
It is a mercy that the contact of your hand with the 
hot stove causes pain. Else you might lose your hand 
before you know it. The " severity of God " is benefi- 
cent in its purpose. By it he tries to save you from ir- 
retrievable ruin. When you respond to the love mani- 
fested in the operation of his immutable laws and par- 
ticularly in the person and work of Jesus, you align 
yourself with these laws and make possible your spirit- 
ual recovery. If you refuse or neglect to do this, your 
spiritual ruin is the inevitable result. 

God is love. He is also infinite in wisdom and knows 
the only course that can save you. He pleads with you 
to follow it. 



34 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



CONTRIBUTORS' FORUM 



Divine Companionship 

The day is long, and the day is hard, 

We are tired of the march and of keeping guard; 
Tired of the sense of a fight to be won, 
Of days to live through and of work to be doner 
Tired of ourselves and of being alone. 

And all the while, did we only see, 

We walk in the Lord's own company; 
We fight, but 'tis he who nerves our arm; 
He turns the arrow which else might harm, 
And out of the storm he brings a calm. 

The work which we count so hard to do, 
He makes it easy, for he works, too; - 
The days that are long to live are his, 
A bit of his bright eternities, 
And close to our need his helping is. 

— Susan Coolidge. 



Our Student Volunteers 

BY M. W. EMMERT 

The term, "Student Volunteer," is comparatively 
new in the vocabulary of the Church of the Brethren. 
While there were groups of students who banded them- 
selves together to study missions move than twenty-five 
years ago, they did not take formal pledges to devote 
their lives to foreign missionary work until the Student 
Volunteer Movement began to be organized about a 
decade and a half ago. Since then the movement has 
grown until every school in the Brotherhood has a 
substantial organization of student volunteers. 

These several organizations have been increasingly 
encouraged by the formation of a general organization, 
with regular yearly conferences in connection with the 
Annual Conference, the appointment of a general 
traveling secretary to visit all the volunteer bands, and 
the devoting of considerable space to their promotion 
in our church literature. They have also been indirect- 
ly but greatly augmented by the prominence given at 
our Annual Conference to missionaries under appoint- 
ment to the foreign field. When, at the Conference, 
these missionaries are placed upon the rostrum and 
formally introduced to the assembled thousands from 
all parts of the Brotherhood, and stars are pinned on 
the great church service flag, the young men and 
women of the church are led to feel there is only one 
thing the church has for them to do that calls for su- 
preme sacrifice and service. When the young people 
who are in training at our colleges begin to look for a 
field of great service for the Kingdom of Christ, there 
is only one branch of the church's work that stands out 
prominently before them. This field of service has not 
been overemphasized, but emphasized out of propor- 
tion to other branches of the work of the Kingdom. 
The only avenue through which to arrive at the point 
where they will be introduced to the whole church, and 
have their star pinned on the great service flag, is 
through the college volunteer band. So volunteer bands 
have been promoted by the colleges, boards and other 
organizations of the church. 

This has all been good. It has opened a wonderful 
field of vision to our young people, who have been 
anxious to manifest heroism and sacrifice for the Mas- 
ter. However, I have observed that out of the army of 
volunteers who have been led by the church and school 
to join the band, only a comparatively few ever receive 
appointment to the foreign field. Out of the very na- 
ture of things this is necessarily true. What becomes 
of the many other volunteers, who are just as conse- 
crated, and perhaps as competent, to serve as those who 
have received appointment ? Crushed and disappointed, 
they have turned away from the service of the church, 
to enter the secular pursuits of life. Has the church 
been carefully conserving the consecration and devo- 
tion that has been fostered by the volunteer bands ? 

May the church have been making a grave mistake 
at this place? At least, is the time not ripe for us to 
place as prominently before our young people other 
avenues for supreme sacrifice and service? As worthy 
and wonderful as foreign mission work is, does it not 



now appear to us all that we need men who will lay 
their lives upon the altar for the Christian ministry in 
the homeland, and in as unreserved manner as when 
they offer themselves for the foreign field ? The dearth 
of pastors, who are willing to give their whole time for 
the work of the ministry at home, is appalling. There 
is need of an army of young men equipped with special 
training to take the place of the older ministers who are 
fast passing off the stage of action. These old brethren 
have done a marvelous work in their day. It is hard 
to see how it could have been better doge. But a 
crisis is now upon the church. With the passing of the 
veterans and the advent of a new age in the affairs of 
the world there has come a demand for some change in 
methods of work which must be recognized by us. In 
many churches, that have fallen under my observation, 
the leaders have not discovered that the post-war con- 
ditions have made it imperative that the church read- 
just herself'in methods of work, so as to meet the new 
conditions that have been thrust upon her. With 
anguish of soul many of the splendid old pastors and 
elders are compelled to witness the old church, for 
which they have given their life in service, gradually 
dying. They have, as yet, not been able to diagnose the 
case and discover the remedy. In some instances, how- 
ever, the seat of the disease has been found, but the 
remedy is not at hand. Men prepared to meet the de- 
mands of the modern age are not in evidence. 

The time is here when it must be shown to our 
young people that it is just as heroic and worthy to give 
their lives to the Christian ministry in the homeland as 
to give their lives for service in the foreign land. In 
fact, it may be shown that in some ways it is even more 
courageous to labor constantly for a meager wage in 
the presence of, and in company with, those who are 
living in comfort and luxury, than to labor in a field 
where these things are not a constant temptation. In 
the homeland the minister has at every turn to face the 
temptation to enter the professions and occupations 
where a large salary is paid. There is a constant pull to 
gratify the natural desire for modern living conditions. 
We need men in the ministry who have burned the 
bridges behind them just as the foreign missionaries 
have done. They should be willing to work for a liv- 
ing, with the assurance that the church will provide for 
them in time of sickness and old age. They should be 
willing to be sent anywhere at any time that the cause 
demands. They should place themselves wholly under 
the supervision of the church. 

On the other hand, the^church, as a whole, should 
have complete control of at least a part of the trained 
ministers in the homeland. The General Ministerial 
Board might have supervision of these ministers, just 
as the General Mission Board has supervision of the 
missionaries. These ministers should not be left to the 
whims and mercies of a local church. The young 
minister does not have very bright prospects when he 
has to depend on a few visionless men in some vision- 
less church. He never knows what day he may un- 
wittingly say a word or do a deed that will hurt the 
feelings of the leader of this visionless group of men. 
His feelings are usually on the outside, where they are 
most apt to be injured. Then the minister is dropped 
without sufficient cause. He is compelled to'make his 
own search for a new place. The church lets him drift 
out to do for himself. This is not right. The present 
need is that the ministers who are willing to put every- 
thing into their work should be backed by the whole 
Brotherhood. 

The home volunteers should be given as much prom- 
inence at the Annual Conference as the foreign volun- 
teers. They should be invited to the rostrum, and have 
their stars pinned on the service flag of the church. 
They should be introduced to the assembled multitude 
at the General Conference of the church. When we 
back up our student volunteers in this manner, we will 
not lack for men to enter the ministry with a deter- 
mination to make it win. Then we will no longer lead 
students to join the volunteer bands, and build up an 
ambition that has to be blasted by failure to secure ap- 
pointment. Our volunteers will not then be tempted 
to enter secular pursuits, and so cripple their service to 
the church. They will have burned the bridges behind 
them, as has the foreign missionary. The supply of 



men will not then be greater than the funds at hand to 
support them. 

When the church adds to her splendid group of 
pastors and leaders this body of young men, especially 
trained and equipped to assist the older ones, whose 
counsel is so much needed, she will not lack for funds 
to carry on the foreign work. These men will be en- 
thusiastic teachers who, themselves, have sacrificed all 
for the church. They will teach others whom they 
lead to make greater sacrifice for the church, so as to 
carry on the great mission work in which we are so 
much interested. When the same spirit actuates the 
leaders at home that actuates the leaders on the foreign 
field, both the home and foreign work will go forward 
in a more efficient and aggressive manner. 

We must begin to furnish other avenues for service 
to our volunteers than the foreign mission work, or 
we shall lose the confidence of our young educated 
class. We must do this or see our volunteer bands be- 
come a thing of the past. This wpuld be an unpar- 
donable neglect. 

Mount Morris, III. 



Heaven's Financial Policy 

BY DAVID METZLER 

Financial matters furnish the basis for the greatest 
activity and discussion of the world today. Heaven's 
finance should be doubly interesting because of its su- 
perior value and importance ; but, sad to say, we know 
but little and care less about it. 

People have different ideas of heaven. Some think 
of it as a place or state where all are equal, and that 
salvation includes the fulness of joy and happiness in 
heaven. To these, " scarcely saved " and an " abundant 
entrance " mean the same. This idea of heaven pro- 
duces the minimum of service. If one gets as much for 
one, as one does for the ten hours' work, why bother 
about the extra nine hours? If barely pinching through 
on the inside of heaven's door, admits one to the ful- 
ness of heaven's joy, why be concerned about anything 
more? These people have no conception of heaven's 
financial policy ; their conduct betrays them. They lay 
up their treasures where moths corrupt and thieves 
break through and steal, and often they are left desti- 
tute and disappointed. Perhaps it would not be ad- 
visable at this time to speak directly of the poor, or the 
poor sections in heaven. 

Others think of heaven as a place of " many man- 
sions," or abiding places, which Jesus has gone to pre- 
pare for his own, whence he will return and " render 
to each man according as his work is," be that much or 
little, faithful or unfaithful. These are aware of the 
fact that " treasures on earth," of whatever they may 
consist, are uncertain, and that heaven is offering a 
place and treasure that shall satisfy and abide always. 
They live less pretentiously than others, because they 
can't afford it ; they are engaged in business, real busi- 
ness. They are just " shifting along," so that they may 
be able to lay up, and invest more in their home where 
they shall always live. 

God's purpose in giving rewards, which is something 
beyond and in addition to salvation or eternal life, is, 
first of all, justice. Jesus said : "Behold I come quick- 
ly, and my reward is with me, to give to each man ac- 
cording as his work is " — reward for service and in 
proportion to it. The ten servants to whom their 
lord gave each a pound were rewarded in exact pro- 
portion to their service. 

The Lord is teaching us, daily, the lesson of his 
justice. The farmer who conforms most fully to the laws 
of agriculture receives the greatest reward. Through 
the laws of plant development God is rewarding him for 
faithful service. The same just God that rules in na- 
ture, rules, also in the spiritual realm. The man who 
wastes his time and spends his years in temporal 
pleasures and pursuits, while another labors faithfully, 
sacrificing in the Lord's service, can not share with 
him in the same reward. Some will be placed over ten, 
and some over five cities, depending on the amount of 
work done. Every man's work will be tried by fire ; if 
his work abides he will receive a reward; if not, he 
shall suffer loss. Yes, he may be saved, " yet so as by 
fire." Empty-handed, in poverty he must face eternity. 
Another purpose God has in giving rewards is an 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



35 



incentive to induce the doing of the work he wants 
done. For some kinds of work there will be " great 
reward," and for other kinds there will be "no reward." 
The hard job brings the big pay. 

Jesus, " who for the joy that was set before him, en- 
dured the cross, despising shame, and hath sat down on 
the right hand of the throne of God," is cited as an 
example for doing hard things for the sake of re- 
ward. The joy that was " set before him " led him to 
do the hardest of all tasks. The sacrifices of his " glory 
with the Father," despising and ignoring the shame and 
suffering of the cross, becoming obedient even unto 
death, is unprecedented and resulted in his exaltation, 
giving " unto him the name that is above every name, 
that in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of 
things in heaven, and things on earth, and things under 
the earth, and that every tongue should confess that 
Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father." 
This matchless service brought to him, justly, supreme 
honor, glory, joy and praise. 

As there was a special reward offered to Jesus for 
this special service, so there are rewards offered for 
different kinds of service now, of which but a few ex- 
amples can be given. 

Jesus said, " Blessed are ye when men shall hate and 
separate you from their company and shall reproach 
you ... for the Son of man's sake. Rejoice in 
that day and leap for joy, for great is your reward in 
heaven " (Luke6: 22, 23). Faithful service in the face 
of persecution is of such tremendous importance that a 
very great reward is offered for it For the person 
who really understands heaven's financial policy there 
is real joy in persecution for righteousness' sake. This 
joy is based on the " great reward in heaven," and 
should cause one actually to leap, because of it. As 
the miner rejoices over finding a rich vein of ore, so 
do heaven's financiers rejoice over these persecutions. 
There is grave danger right here of losing a wonderful 
financial bargain. 

Jesus offers another paying proposition in the fol- 
lowing statement: "Love your enemies and do them 
good . . . and your reward shall be great " (Luke 
6: 35). The right treatment of one's enemies is a hard 
task, according to human nature, but it brings big pay. 
If believers really understood heaven's financial policy, 
the cases of retaliation would be as scarce as gold is on 
the streets. Church quarrels, " stormy councils " and 
participation in war, would be things of the past. There 
are indications that we are wonderfully poor financiers 
in spiritual wealth. What a pity for the loss we must 
suffer ! 

But one more of these wonderful statements and op- 
portunities can be considered at this time. Jesus said : 
" Sell that which thou hast and give to the poor, and 
thou shalt have treasure in heaven" (Matt. 19:21). 
" Make for yourselves purses which wax not old, a 
treasure in heaven that faileth not" (Luke 21:23). 
The conversion of earthly possessions into heavenly 
treasure is an opportunity awaiting all of us. The con- 
ditions are those of ministry to others by the use of our 
temporal means. Those who understand prefer the 
cottage here, and to " lay up " the surplus for " a 
mansion over yonder "-; less bank stock and possessions 
here, and more over there. 

The present mission deficit and the Near East suf- 
ferers furnish splendid opportunities for the conversion 
of our earthly treasures into "a treasure in heaven 
that faileth not." " He that layeth up treasure for him- 
self and is not rich toward God," will, to say the least, 
pass out of this life an absolute bankrupt. Where are 
our spiritual financiers? Why not make use of this 
" get-rich- quick " opportunity by using at least some of 
the treasures laid up for ourselves to pay up our mis- 
sion deficit, and to relieve the suffering? 

This proposition need not discourage those who are 
not rich. Heaven's financial policy is managed on a 
per cent basis. The rich have no advantage over the 
poor. The lord delivered his talents to his servants ac- 
cording to their ability. The one received five and 
gained five. The other received and gained two. Each 
gained one hundred per cent and received the same 
reward. The widow that gave two mites, less than 
one half cent, gave one hundred per cent, more by 
far than the rich who cast into the treasury of their 



abundance. Heaven measures gifts by what the giver 
keeps, not by what is given, thus putting all on an 
equal basis. 

This policy ought to be an incentive to induce people 
to begin to serve the Lord early in life, and to serve 
him more diligently and faithfully. Lost opportuni- 
ties mean lost wealth that can never be regained. If 
it were understood properly there would be less 
treasure laid up on earth and more in heaven, and peo- 
ple would be happier here and hereafter. Humanity 
would be blessed, the world made better and God 
glorified. 

Nappanee, Ind. 



The Student Volunteer Convention 

BY D. W. KURTZ 

Every four years a Student Volunteer Convention 
is held in North America. It is under the auspices of 
the Student Volunteer Movement. This is a " move- 
ment" among students, and those who joined the 
movement when they were students, to put the mission- 
ary challenge up to men. 

(1) It plans to present the " Evangelization of the 
World in This Generation " as a possibility and a duty 
to the student world. 

(2) It aims to enlist student volunteers to give their 
lives on the foreign field to evangelize the world. 

(3) It aims to put an equal challenge to the students, 
who do not go to the foreign field, to back up this cause 
with an equal sense of responsibility and loyalty. 

(4) It aims to challenge the whole Christian church 
with the call to missions as the true purpose of Christ's 
Gospel. 

I had the privilege of attending the Student Volun- 
teer Convention which was held in Toronto, Canada, 
in January, 1902. At that convention only a few of 
-our church were present. In 1906 at Nashville, Tenn., 
about a dozen of our church attended. I am happy to 
say that at Indianapolis, at our meeting on Sunday 
afternoon, one hundred twelve representatives of 
Brethren colleges, and Brethren from other colleges, 
and missionaries and members of the Mission Board 
were present. We were informed that the Church of 
the Brethren had the largest per cent of its total 
membership present of any denomination in America. 
This is encouraging. 

What was the message of the convention itself ? It 
seems to me the whole program falls into four groups 
of ideas : 

I. The pressing problems of the hour in Christian 
lands. There are (1) the industrial situation; (2) the 
international problem; (3) the interracial relations; 
and (4) the youth movement. 

II. The needs of the mission field. Each of the 
great mission fields was represented by a native Chris- 
tian. China brought her needs to the convention 
through Dr. Cheng ; India through Dr. Masih ; Hirosho 
Hatasaka spoke for Japan; Dr. Aggrey, a native of 
the Gold Coast of Africa, and one of the most brilliant 
speakers of the convention, brought to us the needs of 
Africa. Latin America was represented by Prof. 
Osuna, of Mexico. The Near East was represented by 
missionaries. There was but one message from all 
these fields. Now is the time when the field is ripest. 
None of these fields can take care of itself. The for- 
eign missionary must come and help. Never before 
was the need so pressing and never before was it so 
hopeful. The rapidly changing conditions of the world 
make the crisis so imminent. Either Christ now, or 
never. This is the call from the field. 

III. In the third place, there pervaded the whole 
convention one conviction, which, was expressed many 
times, and implied all the time — Christ is the only 
Savior of the world, and the sufficient Savior. Never 
before was the sentiment clearer expressed than at this 
convention, that America, for example, must not try 
to put American industry, American customs and 
forms, or Western civilization upon these mission 
fields. All these things have failed. But America has 
Christ ; he alone has not failed, he alone can help China, 
Japan, India, and Africa. Give them the Living Christ, 
and let all of these nations interpret Christ in their own 
way. 

Each nation can and must make its own contribution 



to Christ. The Wise Men brought to him gold, frank- 
incense and myrrh. So, said our African delegate, 
must the nations. The white man has the gold ; let him 
bring the gold to Jesus. The Chinese and India have 
their mysticism ; let them bring the frankincense. But 
Africa has the sentiment, the joy of life and religion ; 
they will bring the myrrh. The convention was out- 
standing in this note : take not civilization, nor Chris- 
tianity, but the Living Christ to the nations. 

IV. The fourth great note of the convention was the 
challenge to the students of this generation, to commit 
their lives wholly to this cause. The only generation 
we can serve is this generation. The only cure for the 
human needs in Christian lands and heathen lands is 
Christ. Therefore, the only logical conclusion is the 
commitment of life to Jesus Christ as Lord of all. "He 
is either Lord of all, or he is not Lord at all." 

Dr. Mott's great address on Sunday morning was 
the masterpiece of the convention. The comprehen- 
siveness of his vision, the breadth of his grasp, the 
logic of his argument, and the perfection of his English, 
were invincible in their convincing power. In the light 
of all the facts, to be intellectually honest forces one to 
accept as his cause, " The Evangelization of the World 
in This Generation." This challenge is not only to the 
students, but to the whole of Christendom. 

There was another feature of the convention which 
was new, as compared to the conventions of 1902 and 
1906. It was the " group discussions." The great 
questions of the day — the problems on the campus, 
were made the subjects for discussion. These discus- 
sions were limited to students. The subjects selected 
by these students were, in most of the groups, the race 
question, or the problem of peace and war. The con- 
vention was divided into fifty different groups. 

It is my personal conviction that this plan could be 
improved. In the groups that I visited, there were 
heated discussions of the race question, mostly the 
Negro problem, and they came to no conclusions at all. 
I believe in student discussion, but there ought to be 
light more than heat. To shut out the experience and 
expert knowledge of the older generation is not wise. 
I am sure that real progress is made, not by this divi- 
sion of the old and the young, but by the closest sympa- 
thy and cooperation of the experience of the experts, 
and the energy and adventure of youth. 

The spirit of the great convention was fine. It can 
not help but do much good. The tremendous challenge 
of the call of Christ, and the call of the world's need, 
will surely get a response from that vast body of stu- 
dents, and through them, from the entire church. 
McPherson, Kans. 



Faith and Life 

BY H. A. BRANDT 
Sixth of Seven Studies in an Argument with God 

As a result of the controversy between Habakkuk 
and his God some rather interesting information came 
to light. Amongst other things it became clear that the 
erring people of Judah would be punished in due time 
through the accomplishment of a work that was almost 
beyond belief. However, the punishment was to come 
for correction rather than for destruction. This is a 
pregnant truth, for the reason that it suggests the 
underlying philosophy of God's dealings with his peo- 
ple. More and more, as the prophets passed in review, 
it became increasingly clear that a transition was tak- 
ing place. The emphasis was passing from national to 
individual responsibility. Indeed, the time was at hand 
to reckon the people of God upon the basis of what they 
were in heart, as against what they were by the family 
tree. As Ezekiel says : " The soul that sinneth, it shall 
die." In his time the apostle Paul put the finishing 
touches to the argument in his thesis maintaining that 
the true sons of Abraham are reckoned by faith and 
not by blood. And thus, out of an otherwise sinful en- 
vironment, Jehovah selects his own, and these are the 
righteous remnant that shall be saved. 

Then, too, the Chaldeans, as the willing and yet un- 
witting servants of the purpose of the most high God, 
have been promised their just deserts. The doom of 
villain nations is written large, so large, " that he may 
run that readeth it." 

Swiftly through the controversy one passes with the 



36 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



prophet Habakkuk from the dark valley of the God 
who failed, to the mountain peaks disclosing the certain 
and overwhelming victory of the God of the ages. The 
Chaldeans and their idols are covered -with dust, while 
the pageant of Jehovah triumphant approaches from the 
south until the heavens are covered with the glory of 
God. Before the great and mighty God the ponderous 
things of this world and the pride of the nations are as 
nothing. 

"The mountains saw thee, and were afraid; 

The tempest of waters passed by; 

The deep uttered its voice. 

And lifted up its hands on high. " 

But the end of the wicked is as grimly appropriate as 
it is terrible: 
"Thou woundedst the head out of the house of the 
wicked man, 

* * * 

Thou didst pierce with his own staves the head of his 
warriors." 
But to what end is all of this display and manifesta- 
tion of power if nothing is saved? What has become 
of the righteous? Even as the wicked "came as a 
whirlwind to scatter " them, Jehovah intervened. And 
here they are, safe, in the shadow of the Rock. 

" Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night, 
Nor for the arrow that flieth by day, 
For the pestilence that walketh in darkness, 
Nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. 
A thousand shall fall at thy side, 
And ten thounsand at thy right hand; 
But it shall not come nigh thee. 
Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold, 
And see the reward of the wicked." 

The security of the righteous recalls a suggestion 
that may be found at the beginning of Jehovah's second 
answer in the controversy with the prophet : " Behold 
his soul is puffed up, it is not upright in him ; but the 
righteous shall live by his faith." The first half of this 
sentence was amply expanded in the series of five woes 
pronounced against predatory nations of the Chaldean 
type. But what of the statement, " But the righteous 
shall live by his faith " ? Somehow, the most hopeful 
aspect of all that Jehovah answered was left as a mere 
suggestion. Why not expand this suggestion? How 
do the righteous live " by faith " or " in his faithful- 
ness " ? Let experience teach. 

On a day two men viewed the plains and hills of 
Palestine. The older of the two men, who was a prince 
in faith, urged his younger companion to make first 
choice of the land. Selfish Lot chose the well-watered 
valley of the Jordan. Abraham took of what was left 
and meekly went his way. Doubtless he was cheered 
by the thought that in due time the promises of God 
would mature. But, in any case, the meekness of Abra- 
ham illustrates one of the fundamental aspects of the 
principle of life as it obtains in a life of faithfulness. 
"Blessed are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth." 
Faith was always a great word with the apostle Paul. 
Indeed, the very suggestion that is here being expanded 
was taken by St. Paul as the text for his letter to the 
Romans. Again, faithfulness is the overshadowing 
burden of his last message to Timothy, as faithfulness 
is also the watchword of his own life. " Brethren, I 
count not myself yet to have laid hold : but one thing 
I do, forgetting the things which are behind, and 
stretching forward to the things which are before, I 
press on." In St. Paul's determination to reach the one 
thing that he counted the most worth-while he exhibits 
a second life-giving principle in the life of faithfulness. 
The righteous shall live in his faithfulness, be- 
cause he reaches out after the one thing most nearly 
true, honorable, pure, lovely, and of good report. In 
becoming like the eternal things he strives for, the 
righteous makes sure his own immortality. 

Perhaps the hardest discipline for youth, is, just to 
wait. At least, Moses could not wait, until he lost 
his opportunity and fled to the land of the priest of 
Midian. And there he waited. He waited until, in 
the triumph of almost perfect self-control, he went 
forth to deliver his people. The righteous shall live, 
because, to be righteous, one must learn to wait. 

A fourth life-giving principle in the life of faithful- 
ness is exhibited by Christ. For, not only was he meek, 
not only did he seek the one thing most worth-while, 
and not only had he learned to wait ; but in addition, he 



had in all things learned to obey. Indeed, the Master 
was so fastidious in this respect that he insisted upon 
meeting the utmost requirement in order to " fulfil all 
righteousness." 

There is really no great mystery in the relation be- 
tween faith and life. It would be strange, indeed, if, 
when the pageant of God has passed, one should not 
find the righteous safe and secure in the shadow of the 
Rock. The righteous lives in his faithfulness because, 
through meekness, singleness of purpose, patience, and 
obedience he has builded the four walls of an impreg- 
nable fortress. Out of faith comes faithfulness, and 
out of faithfulness comes more faith! The wicked 
shall perish on their own staves, " but the righteous 
shall live by his faith." 

La Verne, Calif. 



" Let There Be Light!" 

BY GALENE MYERS 

In the beginning of creation, while the Spirit of God 
moved on the face of the waters, the voice of God pro- 
claimed light to a darkened world, blessed light, symbol 
of God's undying love for humanity. Slowly the ages 
passed, but the word of God remained continually 
unheeded, and finally the world was again shrouded 
in darkness, deep and impenetrable, the darkness of 
unbelief and sin. Into this darkness — into this de- 
spairing, sin-sick world — came a Light, our Lord, the 
" Light of the world," bringing priceless gifts to us : re- 
demption from sin, and the hope of eternal life. 

This wonderful Gospel of salvation is free and open 
to all men. But how many men, women, and children 
have perished throughout the years without the Christ ! 
How many, even now, are dying still in the darkness 
of heathenism ! Our Lord entrusted his mission to us, 
his disciples, here on earth. Must we say that we have 
failed to discharge that duty ; must we say that we are 
now failing to fulfil his commission to us? In the far- 
off heathen lands, where ignorance, superstition, and 
idolatry reign unchecked, our brothers and sisters are 
stretching out supplicating hands to us, calling to us to 
save them from the depths of the misery that is choking 
them. How can we, professed Christians that we are, 
sit idly by, enjoying the blessings of a Christian nation, 
surfeited by luxury, lukewarm and half-sleepily ad- 
ministering to the affairs of his kingdom ! Come ye, 
sons and daughters of Zion, hear the clarion call ring- 
ing down through the ages, " Go ye into all the world 
and preach the gospel to every creature." The respon- 
sibility is yours and mine, and we must obey the call of 
God while there yet remains on earth a single person 
who has not heard of our Savior. 

This message to us, of light and hope to all the world, 
embodies within itself a great missionary call, and is 
one of the most specific commands in all the Bible. Can 
we not picture to ourselves the hope of the Master, as 
he looked at his disciples for the last time, and as he 
placed in their hands the responsibility of completing 
here on earth the work which he had already begun? 
Let us study the command a bit carefully. The Lord 
said, " Go ye." He was speaking to men who had been 
with him night and day — men who had the imprint of 
a personal contact with their Master. If they could 
look up into his face in perfect trust and say, " Yea, 
Lord, we will go," how much more should we, who 
know the Lord in these later days, follow the com- 
mand? Then came the words, "into all the world," 
and we today are trying to follow in the steps of those 
early missionaries, for every field has been entered. 
Yet, after many centuries, in which the " go ye " has 
been a living command, two-thirds of the world is still 
in darkness with only a few missionaries bringing it 
the message of peace and light. 

It has been estimated that at present only about 20,- 
400 Protestant missionaries are at work in heathen 
lands. China has one missionary for each 63,000 
people ; India has one for each 62,000 ; Japan, one for 
each 52,000; and Africa, one for each 24,000. What a 
relatively few, and how much work remains to be done ! 
Does it mean nothing to you, O self-satisfied and 
complacent church member, that two-thirds of the 
world is in darkness ; that women of the world to the 
number of two-thirds are bound hand and foot by the 
degrading customs of heathendom ; that the average 



life of a zenana girl wife is twenty-three years; that 
babies are in such great numbers dying from diseases 
and malnutrition that the death rate is four and five 
times that of the United States; that the darkness of 
heathen practices enthralls millions of your heathen 
brethren? You and I can, and must, send them the 
light of God's Word ; you and I, in Christ's own words, 
are responsible for teaching and preaching the message 
of salvation to them while they are waiting with out- 
stretched hands. Oh, may we not be too late 1 

" A string of camels go in single file, 

Bearing their burdens o'er the desert sand; 
Swiftly the boats go plying on the Nile, 

The needs of man are met on every hand; 
But still I wait 
For the messenger of God, who cometh late. 

" I see a cloud of dust rise on the plain, 
The measured tread of troops falls on my ear; 

The soldier comes, an empire to maintain, 
Bringing the pomp of war, the reign of fear; 

But still I wait 

For the messenger of God, who cometh late. 

" That set me looking o'er the desert drear 
Where darkness reigneth as the blackest night; 

From many a mosque there comes the call to prayer,' 
Yet no one calls on Christ for light; 

But still I wait. 

For the messenger of Christ, he cometh late. " 

Cando, N. Dak. 



Some Impressions 

BY W. 0. BECKNER 



That group of more than five thousand college 
students from the United "States and Canada, who 
were together in the recent Student Volunteer Con- 
vention at Indianapolis, Ind., are by this time back 
at their tasks, but not in the same way. The opening 
up of the mind to have poured through its channels 
the great throbbing currents of life with, which our 
world is today so vibrant, sent these students home 
with different attitudes and different outlooks upon the 
life which we must live together in this world of hu- 
man beings. 

I may mention here only one phase of the processes 
at work. The convention opened on Friday afternoon, 
with some well-prepared addresses by masters in their 
field, and continued Friday evening and early Satur- 
day morning. The addresses were along the lines of 
racial relations, industrial relations, peace and war — 
matters which all thoughtful men regard as so full of 
meaning for our future peace and happiness. 

Then, on Saturday morning, for two hours, the 
whole delegation was divided into about fifty groups, 
and the students themselves were asked what they 
think about such matters. In one group these ques- 
tions were put on the blackboard for discussion : 

1. Should Negroes, Jews and others be admitted 
on a basis of equality into (a) classrooms; (b) eat- 
ing houses; (c) social affairs; (d) pastimes; (e) 
athletic teams? 

2. What should students do now about war? In 
case war comes, should a person take part? 

3. Are coercion and terrorizing measures justifi- 
able in supporting our morality, in opposing and over- 
turning dangerous beliefs, or in securing other doubt- 
ful ends? 

4. Can a Christian conscientiously engage in any 
life work on a profit basis? Without the incentives 
of competition for money, position, or renown, can we 
count on the work of the world being done? 

Here we have the race question, the war question 
and the industrial question stated — matters which are 
giving human society so much concern at this time. 
And these young folks, not yet out of college, were 
asked what they think on these matters. 

The group which I attended spent nearly the whole 
of the two hours on the race question. Is there such 
a thing as a "superior race"? Do interracial marriages 
help or hinder human happiness? If they are some- 
times unhappy, are all marriages within a race neces- 
sarily happy? To what extent can students associate 
with those of other races with profit to both races? 
If one race is superior, what are the standards by 
which the races are measured to determine that 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



37 



superiority? Is there such a thing as an absolute 
standard, or is it the practice that each race sets up 
what seems to it the highest and best in life, and then 
measures other races by those standards ? Is there a di f- 
ference between talking about our opinions and prej- 
udices and talking in terms of what has actually been 
determined as facts'? What phase of the race ques- 
tion is now concerning some other countries — South 
America, Japan, China, West Indies, etc. — and what 
are the facts regarding conditions there? 

In view of all this which we may know as facts, 
what attitude should be taken by the thousands of- 
students in our American schools and colleges today, 
upon whom the responsibility for adjustment must 
rest in the immediate future? What may we learn 
from Jesus of Nazareth and his life on this question? 
What can we, as students, do when we get back home, 



on our own campus, to bring about a right solution of 
the problem as it exists there? 

Somebody said (just about the right time to say it) 
that the things in man which make for personality, for 
character, are the same in alt races. Men are every- 
where warmed by love and chilled by ill will ; we are 
what we are because of that-which has gone into the 
stream of our lives to produce us. God looks on us as 
being just alike in his sight. 

Would a good, heavy dose of GOOD WILL do 
our old sin-sick world any good? What better medi- 
cine can you think of that is needed ? 

That such fundamental questions in our present 
world life were faced so seriously by these thousands 
of young men and young women is a wonderful 
prophecy of a better world tomorrow. 

Chicago, III. 



M 


Our Forward Movement 

Edited by J. W. Lear 

General Director of the Council of Promotion 


■ 



enough to know about God ; we must know him per- 
sonally and " experience the joy of his love and his 
grace. " 

An outline something like this would be good: A 
hymn — one all can sing; a careful, reverent reading 
of a brief, appropriate scripture; a brief discussion of 
the passage ; an illustration or story suited to the chil- 
dren ; a brief experience from the lives of the older 
members of bow the scripture worked in their lives ; 
a brief but fervent prayer, bringing before God every 
member of the family, remembering loved ones who 
are absent, interceding for the work of tbe church at 
home and abroad ; close with the Lord's prayer. 

Parents should not use all the time of the prayer 
moments. Teach and allow the children to pray. It 
would be well occasionally for every one to pray, be- 
ginning with the youngest. Through these occasions, 
if rightly entered into, cumulative contributions of 
spiritual power will be added to each life. 



Spiritual Resources 

In this department we have given the outline of a 
Church Program, and I do not care to repeat it here. 
Bro. Pastor, if you have forgotten, hunt up the issue 
of the Messenger containing it. I will have occasion 
to refer to the outline from time to time. 

Under the first department, let me speak of some 
objectives which are of vital importance. In each 
department of the program every pastor should ar- 
range an outline of objectives to be used in his efforts 
to generate spiritual resources. 

Let me say again, that all material and moral ac- 
complishments must wait until the church has dis- 
covered the resources of spiritual strength, and until 
these resources have become an integral part of the 
members of the body whose duty it is to exalt Christ 
in the world. 

If your church is satisfied with traditional routine, 
content to " hold her own, " and thus is becoming 
prayerless, visionless, spineless and barren, the cries 
and sufferings of a distracted world will go unheeded 
and the light of Christianity will be obscured by the 
vice, crime and superstition sure to follow. 

A church rich in material goods and poor in faith 
can have no message for this generation. If we — 
having money to build fine churches, ride in expensive 
autos, erect fine houses that are fitted with expensive 
tapestries and furniture, wear luxuriant and expen- 
sive clothing, feed ourselves on sumptuous meals, with 
sweetmeats and delicacies for lunch — plead poverty, 
poor crops and " poor prices, " when the treasury of 
the Lord is to be replenished, it is highly essential that 
some one read to us with emphasis the scathing re- 
buke to the lukewarm Laodicean church (Rev. 3: 14- 
22). 

The responsibility for this condition of affaire rests 
with the pastor. He is the watchman on the tower. 
Let him remember that " the morning cometh, also 
the night. " He is the undershepherd of the flock and 
responsible to the Great Shepherd for tending and 
feeding, and if the responsibility grips him as it did 
that pastor of long ago, as recorded in Acts 20: 17-38, 
a great transformation will overtake our churches. 
Let the pastor be sure that coercion is futile, but that 
sincere and passionate entreaty, based upon divine 
authority, is powerful. 

What, then, are some of the objectives in the de- 
partment Deepening the Spiritual Life? 

1. A -new and enlightening emphasis on family 
religion, parental instruction and family worship in 
all Brethren homes, should receive due- attention. 

a. Family Religion. — Our homes need to be safe- 
guarded. With platform and press advocating loose 
ideals of marital relations, the stage and movies play- 
ing up free love and otherwise illicit behavior, with 
courts grinding out divorces daily, the would-be home 
builders find choppy and turbulent seas on which to 
sail their venture. It is high time to bring the teach- 
ings of the Bible to bear upon the lives of both sexes, 
that they may be truly Christian in the intimacy of the 
marital relationship. There is no book that deals more 



frankly with sinful passions, or that more strongly 
challenges to a life of purity. With all our science 
and art, pure religion is the only sure protection for 
our homes. 

There are a number of good books and tracts that 
should find their place on the library tables in our 
homes. An occasional reverent address on the purity 
of courtship, sacredness of marriage, and the adorn- 
ment of the home should be given. An occasional 
program by the young people themselves would stim- 
ulate thought. I just read what I consider a splendid 
outline : 

I. God's Challenge to Purity (Psa. 24:3). 

II. God's Promise to Purity (Matt. 5:8). 

III. God's Standard of Purity (1 John 3:3). 

IV. God's Rewards for Purity (Prov. 22: 11). 

V. God's Punishment for Impurity (Rom. 1:18- 

32). 
VI. God's Pathway to Purity (Psa. 119:9). 
VII. God's Power to Keep His Children Pure 
(Philpp. 2:13). 
b. Parental Instruction. — Parents have too long 
farmed out their children's instruction in the Scripture 
to other folks. There must be a facing about here. 
Too many times the parents are living such barren 
spiritual lives before their children that they feel dis- 
qualified. The pastor has a real task here, to 

(1) Overcome the apathy on the part of parents. 

They should be restored from this sin to parental- ob- 
ligation and privilege (Eph. 6:4), according to Gal. 
6:16. 

(2) Overcome the handicap in many homes re- 
sulting from ignorance of the Scriptures. Helpful 
methods of Bible study should be afforded them, and 
they should be inspired to undertake instruction. 

(3) Overcome the positive worldly atmosphere 
of many so-called Christian homes. Too many times 
some of the works of the flesh (Gal. 5:19-21) lurk 
in the home. It is not uncommon to hear young peo- 
ple, and older ones as well, reciting their training to 
pray " at mother's knee. " Would it not be whole- 
some if we could hear it said occasionally that they 
learned to pray " at father's knee " ? Let worldly fa- 
thers consider. 

c. Family Worship. — True knowledge of God 
should issue in the worship of him. In fact, we have 
not truly seen him until our admiration springs into 
worship. 

I wonder how many excuses you have heard for 
the negligence of family worship ? " Lack of time, " 
" Difficulty of finding a suitable hour, " " I can't pray 
before my children, " " I do not know how to make 
it profitable. " For the most part the reason for 
prayerless homes can be summed up in this : " A lack 
of fellowship with God on the part of parents and of 
true consecration to him for the fulfillment of their 
responsibility. " 

The children must be brought into the very presence 
of God. No one can bring another to that place with- 
out first gaining that fellowship for himself. It is not 



Some Helpful Material 

Book* 

On the Training of Parents. — Abbott. 

Quiet Talks About Home Ideals. — S. D. Gordon. 

A Child's Religion. — Mary A. Wilbur. 

Religious Training in School and Home. — Sneath- 
Hodges. 

Guiding Boys Over Fool Hill. — McKinney. 

Training the Devotional Life. — Wcigel-Tweedy. 

Your Boy : His Nature and Nature. — Geo. A. Dickin- 
son. 

The Child for Christ.— McKinney. 

Parent, Child and Church. — Chas. C. Smith. 

Quiet Talks With the Family.— Chas. E. Jefferson. 

Singular Actions of Consistent Christians. — Wm. 
Seeker. 

When the King Came. — Geo. Hodges. 

The Faith of a Little Child.— Wilson. 

Day After Day. — Chapman. 

Prayers for School Boys and School Girls. — Wm. 
Watson. .-•-. 

Just to Make Us Think 

Once your church decided to support a mission 
worker on the foreign field. A very splendid decision. 
God no doubt recorded that act with a good deal of 
pleasure. Jesus said, " I do always the things that are 
pleasing to him. " But what can you say to justify 
that action your church made just recently, it may be, 
when you decided to get out from under that obliga- 
tion? How much did the members deny themselves 
before they took the action that denied the Lord his 
rights? Did your church decide it at a prayer meet- 
ing or at a business meeting? It would make a dif- 
ference. 

In the same State are two groups of people. One 
group, of near two hundred and fifty folks, many of 
them well-to-do, gave in the emergency call at the 
Christmas time about $85. The other group, of fewer 
than fifty people, gave at the same time for the same 
cause over $100. The most of the givers in the last 
case were young people and children. What reasons 
would you assign for the conditions in the two groups? 



I once heard a church member say that he could not 
make money without keeping himself in debt. So 
he bought another farm as soon as the last one was 
paid for. This same man had very little money for 
community betterment, for local church expansion, 
and still less for the general mission work of the 
church. He was always head over heels in debt when 
such opportunities knocked at his door. The thing 
that condemned the rich man who pulled down his 
barns and built greater, was that he laid up treasures 
for himself, but was not rich toward God. How many 
of that class in the Church of the Brethren? The 
Lord knows them that are his. The day of reckon- 
ing is sure to come. 



Wealth is like a viper, which is harmless if a man 
knows how to take hold of it ; but if he does not, it will 
twine round his hand and bite him.— St, Clement. 



38 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



THE ROUND TABLE 



How David Danced 

BY S. Z. SHARP 

To dance means to pass lightly over a surface. There 
are various kinds of dancing, each kind impelled by a 
specific motive, accompanied by a particular feeling. 
Figuratively, " The shadows danced upon the wall," 
" The boat danced upon the crest of the waves." We 
quote the following from the best of literature : " The 
lambs skipped and danced upon the hillside " ; " The 
bear danced in his cave " ; " The Indians held a war 
dance " ; " The Shaking Quakers danced in their 
church"; "David danced before Jehovah with all his 
might " (2 Sam. 6 : 14) ; " The young people danced in 
the Majestic." 

Each of the above dances was according to the mo- 
tive that actuated and the feeling that accompanied it. 
The lambs danced for joy. The bear danced because 
food was held up before him and he wanted it. The 
Indians danced to arouse a war spirit. They moved 
around in a circle in single file, stepping along slowly 
at first, brandishing their tomahawks, and increasing in 
speed until they had worked themselves up to a frenzy. 
Only the warriors danced. The Shakers danced singly, 
with solemn tread, to arouse religious feelings. David 
hopped and skipped because he was so glad the ark of 
Jehovah was being brought home again by the Levites. 
His motive was to glorify God, and his feelings were 
that of religious fervor. He danced by himself and did 
not come in contact with the opposite sex. There was 
not a taint of a sex feeling. The young people who 
danced in the Majestic wanted to experience the feeling 
which is aroused by contact with the opposite sex. The 
modern dance is always by the opposite sexes coming 
together. Neither sex dances by itself. We had some 
experience in this. When we took charge of a seminary, 
the students asked permission to have a dance. We 
granted it, only stipulating that the sexes must dance 
separately in different rooms. They would not dance 
that way at all. You never hear of a ball or a dance by 
either sex alone. The motive of the modern dance is to 
arouse that feeling which comes from contact with the 
opposite sex, and which often leads to the most deplora- 
ble results, as any one can learn who will read that little 
book entitled, " From the Ballroom to Hell," which may 
be obtained from the Brethren Publishing House. No 
one who has a true Christian spirit will have any desire 
to take part in a modern dance. There is nothing in the 
manner in which David danced or recommended in the 
one hundred and fiftieth Psalm, to afford any argu- 
ment for the modern dance. 

Fruita, Colo. .-•_ 

Your Deferred Reward 

BY GEO. W. TUTTLE 

Oh, yes, we get impatient. We say, " I have done 
my best and no one appreciates." Are not young folk 
naturally impatient, save as the grace of God comes into 
heart and life as the result of a vision of the ever- 
patient Jesus? Was his reward deferred? Did his own 
people flock to him as bees flock to clover, or did they 
set their hearts as a flint against his person and his 
message? 

Did the Master ever say, "No use"? How fertile 
is your imagination? Can you imagine his saying to 
the inner circle — Peter and James and John — " No 
use to try and change these stony hearts ; you might as 
well go back to your fishing"? Oh, the inexhaustible 
patience of my Jesus! If I knew it not I should say, 
" Surely, there is no hope for me! My Christian life 
is so feeble, my light so dim when all the lighting power 
of him who said, ' I am the light of the world,' is at 
the command of faith ! Is not my Master's patience in- 
exhaustible, his mercy boundless, his love all-embrac- 
ing? Am I not the almoner of his bounty, the object 
of his love?" 

Possibly you have been kind and helpful, and kind- 
ness and helpfulness have not flowed back to you in a 
resistless tide. Well, did it flow back to Jesus? Even 
the palm branches were but for a day, to be followed 



by the cry, " Crucify him ; crucify him !" Think of the 
cleansing of the ten lepers and the pathetic words of the 
Master, "Were there not ten cleansed? but where are 
the nine?" 

Again, you have been misunderstood, your motives 
questioned, your actions criticised. Be patient; you 
have goodly company. Was not Christ misunderstood? 
Your reward is only deferred. " And, behold, I come 
quickly ; and my reward is with me, to give every man 
according as his work shall be." 

Are you thin-skinned, sensitive, easily offended? Get 
your eyes on Jesus, your thoughts higher than self. 
Sensitiveness may become a disease, but Christ is the 
remedy. Let our prayer be, " O Lord, give us thy out- 
look instead of our inlook." 

Why should young folk ever whine, and say, " I am 
not appreciated"? Christ is the Great Appreciator! 
Can loyalty, faith, kindness, purity and patience pass 
unnoticed by him? What an awful thing it would be 
if it could be honestly said of us that we sought the 
praise of men rather than the praise of God ! Here is 
a terse prayer for righteousness : " O Lord, make my 
life a mirror in which men may look, and see Jesus." 
Pasadena, Calif. 



Starving Your Talents 

BY DAISY M. MOORE 

" Oh, I haven't any talent, really !" 

You have heard that remark; do you believe it? Do 
you believe that any intelligent human ever is wholly 
without a talent? 

I do not; and besides, most people have several 
talents. 

It is a sad fact that folks sometimes remain in ig- 
norance of the real talents they have. Sometimes an 
unusual event will discover, late in life, a quality 
hitherto undreamed of, which seems to have been com- 
pletely hidden. 

Oftener we realize our aptness along certain lines, 
but because we are ambitionless, or because the devel- 
opment of this same aptitude would require energy and 
application, which we are unwilling to give, we allow 
our talents to atrophy for lack of use. 

We lay them out of sight, disregarding the fate of the 
man in the parable, who carefully wrapped in a napkin 
the one talent he possessed, and put it where he would 
not be reminded of his responsibility and privilege! 

Strange that we seem loath to use the powers we 
possess, for nearly everyone must do something in life 
— engage in some form of activity. It seems irrational 
not to do what we are by nature best fitted for. How 
many, many times we find the round peg in the square 
hole! 

True, our talent, at first, may seem insignificant, but, 
like any other power which we possess it can grow 
only through use. The only way we can keep any gift 
is to use it. 

Physical strength slips away from us unless we ex- 
ercise; the powers of the mind weaken unless put to 
work. 

Many people deplore the fact that they can not now 
do what they once did ; and why can't they ? They have 
failed to use or to exercise that gift or talent. 

Develop your talents early; then never allow them 
to rust out. Wear them out. It is much more satis- 
factory and productive of results. 

Perhaps you have a desire to speak or pray in pub- 
lic, but you feel that you can not ; the ability to do these 
things was not cultivated when you were younger. 

We lose our ability to work unless we work; to 
pray unless we pray ; to give unless we give. 

Your talents are gifts — precious ones; do not deny 
them, but give them a fair chance. 

Fairfield, Pa. 



regulars. And it is certain we in our Christian service 
need many more that are right at their post seven days 
in a week. And — shall I say? — they should not change 
posts too often. For safety we should know the 
run, and for efficiency we should be " on to our jobs." 
Whether we write poems, preach sermons, plow corn, 
or chop wood, it is all God's work, is it not? Perhaps 
quite too much of our Christian service is of the tri- 
weekly, " tryweakly " sort. 

The few specials and extras .that we do have and 
need would be more effective and perhaps safer when 
all the regulars are in their places throughout the week: 
in their homes and in the comumnity. Too many 
specials are apt to bring about an unbalanced condition 
in our missionary activities that may cause a break- 
down which will be hard to rebuild. 
Avilla, Mo. . +. . 

Our Father in Nature 

BY E. J. SMITH 

"The heavens declare the glory of God, and the 
firmament showeth his handiwork." Probably never 
before did- I so fully realize the truthfulness of the 
above statement of David as now, since we saw its 
verification here on the plains. Recently a son and I were 
finishing a piece of work in our field, which caused us 
to remain until twilight. Just then the beautiful full 
moon, without the least shadow of a cloud to obstruct 
its brilliancy, made its appearance above the horizon. 
It seemed only about three-fourths of a mile distant, 
and about halfway between us and the horizon, and in 
direct line with the moon, lay a beautiful lake of some 
five acres .or more. And now, dear reader, can you 
imagine the beautiful scene — the full moon with all its 
beauty and splendor, just as the Father made it, re- 
produced in the lake? There were two full moons, ap- 
parently only a few feet apart. 

" Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works 
which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to 
us-ward ; they can not be reckoned up in order to thee. 
If I would declare and speak of them, they are more 
than can be numbered." Oh, who could refrain from 
heeding the loving call of such a Father? " Wherefore 
come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith 
the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing and I will 
receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall 
be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." 
The Father not only paints the beauties of nature for 
us to enjoy, but gives us all the good things pertaining 
to this life, and then, a thousand times more, a beautiful 
home in heaven. 

Clovis, N. Mex. 



Specials and Triweeklies 

BY ZACH NEHER 

. In much of our Christian service do we not need 
many more regulars? It may be all right for the rail- 
roads to have their specials, their extras, fast trains and 
" try-weeklies, " going up one week and trying to come 
back the next. But even the railroads need many more 



" Keeping Him Waiting " 

BY CHESTER E. SHULER 

A mother was putting her little girl to bed one 
evening. They had just knelt for the child's " Now I 
lay me down to sleep," when there was a ring at the 
doorbell. 

"Just wait a minute," said the mother, as she 
hastened downstairs. " I'll be right back, dear," 

She admitted the visitor, and, in the. conversation 
which followed, forgot to return immediately upstairs. 

After some time had elapsed, the lady and her caller 
were surprised to hear the child calling loudly for her 
mother. 

" Yes, dear," answered the lady. " What is it?" 

" Mama, aren't you 'shamed to keep God waitin' so 
long?" 

" That has taught me a lesson," remarked the mother 
to her. guest after she had knelt by her darling's side 
and asked forgiveness from her heavenly Father. 
" How often, I fear, do God's children ' keep him wait- 
ing ' !" 

" Quite true," agreed the other lady. "And isn't it 
sweet of him so often to remind us of our failings 
through the ' little ones ' whom he loves so well?" 

" In this case, I'm sure ' a little child ' has led me to 
see a great truth; and may the dear Lord give me 
strength never again to ' keep him waiting,' but rather 
' always to pray.' " 

Harrisburg, Pa. 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



39 



HOME AND FAMILY 



Some One's Voice 

BY EDYTH HILLERY HAY 
Sounding through the din and strife 
Of the crowded ways of life; 
Through its turmoil and its rush. 
Through its momentary hush"— 
When my cross is hard to hear. 
Falling sweetly on my car 
Corned a voice I love to hear, 
For it tells me that my Lord is near. 

Some one's voice is dearer, far, 
Than earth's paltry treasures are — 
Some one's voice is meat and drink 
When awearied I would sink; 
Some one's voice, whose tender tone 
With the years has sweeter grown. 
Says, " I will not leave my own; 
I will never leave my own alone, " 

Ah, to hear that sweetest voice 
Makes the faintest heart rejoice — 
Sounding through the aisle of years 
With their toils and with their tears; 
Lo, it speaks from Calvary, 
" I who died to ransom thee 
Will for aye thy Keeper be, 
Tho' thy friends forsake and flee, 
I wi'll hold thee, I will fold thee close to me. 

Goshen, Ind. 



Grandmother Warren 

BY BESS ROYER BATES 
"Be Strong and of Good Courage " 

The pastor had come to visit Grandmother as he 
loved to do and, as often happened, Grandmother had 
discovered his troubles and was comforting him. Said 
she: 

" Yes, I expected you would have that trouble. All 
of the pastors before you have had it." 

" I never met just this situation before," replied he. 
" Sometimes I am discouraged. I feel like saying 
' What is the use?' I have to make sacrifices to do this 
work, and there is little pay. I could do without the 
money, but sometimes it seems that there is even little 
brotherly love. No matter what I decide or which way 
I turn, some one is against me." 

" That is the price a leader pays for his position," 
said Grandmother. 

" I would rather be a layman and let the other fellow 
do the leading." 

" We need leaders," went on Grandmother. " You 
haven't as hard a position as Joshua had to fill. He 
took Moses' place. I hesitate to criticise, but it is well 
known that the man before you was not a leader. You 
have many things in your favor here. Every man in a 
place of responsibility ought to read the first chapter of 
Joshua often. There the Lord tells Joshua of his posi- 
tion and tells him how to hold it. 

" ' Only be thou strong and very courageous, that 
thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, 
which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not 
from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou may- 
est prosper whithersoever thou goest. This book of the 
law shall not depart out of thy mouth ; but thou shalt 
meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest ob- 
serve to do according to all that is written therein : for 
then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou 
shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee ? 
Be strong and of a good courage ; be not afraid, neither 
be thou dismayed : for the Lord thy God is with thee 
whithersoever thou goest. 



with Moses. Whosoever he be that doth rebel against 
thy commandment, and will not hearken unto thy words 
in all that thou commandest him, he shall be put to 
death : only be strong and of good courage.' 

" The warriors were ready to follow Joshua as they 
had Moses, on one condition only : that he be strong and 
of good courage. They wanted to feel that there was 
some one backing them. They wanted to know where 
he stood. They wanted to know that he would lead 
them, that he could enforce his word. 

" People today are no different from those warriors. 
The man who can accept and carry responsibility, the 
man of conviction, strength and courage, is needed 
everywhere. People want to lean on him, want to fol- 
low him, want to do exactly as he says. But when dis- 
couragement comes, when his projects fait, when his 
friends depart, he must still be strong and of good 
courage. Then more than any other time does he need 
to stand for what he knows to be right, stand firmly 
so that he can give courage to less-inspired fellows who 
can not see as clearly as he. 

" It is no easy task to be a leader. A leader chooses 
trouble when he takes the position. Joshua found that 
out very soon after he accepted his commission. When 
the Israelites went up to conquer Ai, they were routed. 
Joshua rent his clothes and fell on the ground before 
the Ark, crying: 

" ' Alas, O Lord God, wherefore hast thou at all 
brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the 
hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? Would to God 
we had been content and dwelt on the other side of 
Jordan !' 

" Joshua had his hour of discouragement. That 
comes. But after that dark hour is bound to come 
a brighter one. The Lord said to Joshua : ' Get thee 
up. Wherefore liest thou on thy face ?' After all the 
Lord's promises, Joshua could lie on his face bemoan- 
ing his fate. He forgot his strength and courage. So 
I say to you, ' Get thee up. Be strong and of good 
courage.' We want you strong. We need to share 
your courage. We may not all agree with you, but we 
can all respect and love you, when you are strong and 
of good courage." 

" Grandmother," said the pastor, " I believe you are 
the Joshua of this congregation. I am glad to come and 
share your strength and courage." 
Pittsburgh, Pa. 

My Neighbor 

BY IDA M. HELM 

"Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy 
heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and 
with all thy strength." This is the first command- 
ment. And the second is like, namely this: "Thou 
shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other 
commandment greater than these " (Mark 12 : 30-31). 

"Who is my neighbor ?"-^This is an old, old ques- 
tion. Yet, after nineteen hundred years since Jesus 
lived and loved and taught, people who are actually in 
doubt are asking the same question. 

Does Jesus mean more than the family across the 
way? Does he mean more than the people that belong 
to the same denomination? Does he mean more than 
people of the same nationality ? Just whom did Jesus 
include in the term " neighbor " in the second great 
commandment? Does being neighborly consider only 
the material factors in life, or does it include the spir- 
itual? Do our neighborly acts and words and smiles 
extend to the " foreigner," the Indian, the Negro, the 
poor white, the outcast? 

Our minds revert to the story Jesus told about the 
Good Samaritan on the Jericho road. Evidently Jesus 



back door, he called out, " Mother, I've brought my 
friend Angelo home to supper." Angelo waited bash- 
fully on the doorstep. Jimmie's mother put her lips to 
her small son's ear. " He's very dirty, Jimmie," she 
whispered. "I know it," said Jimmie, coolly, "but 
I'll wash him." Jimmie's father had just arrived when 
his small son appeared with Angelo. " This is Angelo 
Vinci, father," Jimmie explained. " I've just been 
washing him." Jimmie Senior patted Jimmie Junior 
on the back. " You may always bring Angelo to sup- 
per Friday nights," he said. Then he turned to his 
wife. " Did you hear the mayor say that we should all 
try to make the Italian colony become Americanized? 
It strikes me that our Jimmie has gone about it in a 
sensible way." 

Eleanor smiled a little absent-mindedly. She was 
noticing how closely Angelo was imitating Jimmie's 
manners, with a very fair degree of success. Angelo 
wore Jimmie's blouse home. The next week he ap- 
peared with a little parcel. " My mother thank you for 
the blouse," he said, politely, " and she send you this." 
Eleanor unrolled the little parcel and found a piece of 
handmade lace. 

" O Angelo, this is wonderful !" " My mother make 
it for you," Angelo said. "She can not sew like Ameri- 
cans, but she can make lace." Grandmother's hobby 
was lace. "Does she make other kinds of lace, Angelo?" 
she demanded. Angelo spread out his hands in a 
sweeping gesture. "Many, many kinds," he said. "I'll 
take you home with me after school tomorrow." 

Eleanor and her mother were received with open 
arms. Beautiful, intricate pieces of lace, and hand- 
woven bedspreads and table linen were brought out for 
their inspection. " But I can not make an American 
blouse for Angelo," sighed the mother. " I'll come 
down and cut one out for you," volunteered Eleanor's 
grandmother. So Jimmie's grandmother found herself 
teaching a group of Italian women to make clothes for 
small boys. And in the same neighborly fashion they 
taught her to cook many things. Jimmie's father 
looked after the two boys thoughtfully. " If all Ameri- 
cans would neighbor like Jimmie," he said, reflectively, 
" our foreign problem would be gone in a year." 
Ashland, Ohio. 



was trying to show that any one in trouble was really 
Grandmother paused after she stopped repeating the neighbor of any one that comes along. Some one has 
beautiful words. After a bit she said: said, " One way to be neighborly is to keep the Jericho 
" There Joshua was given his commission as leader road free from robbers." Perhaps we do not realize 
of the people. He was told where to get his strength to as fully as we should that it is the duty of each in- 
lead them and what to do to keep it. Above all, he was dividual to do his part to make the occasions for wrong- 
to be strong and of good courage. God wanted him to doing as few as possible if he would be a good neighbor, 
be that. A little later, when Joshua commanded all of If every person would treat others with justice and 
the men to go into the promised land and clear out the love, perhaps the puzzling question, ' Who is my neign- 
hostile tribes, these men said to him : 'According as we bor?" might be solved. 

hearkened unto Moses in all things, so will we hearken May Barclay gives a splendid illustration of Be- 

unto thee ; only the Lord thy God be with thee as he was ing a good neighbor." One day, as Jtmmie came in the 



An Appeal to Our Aid Society Sisters 

BY MARGIE JOHN GARST 

How thankful we are for the great Aid organiza- 
tion of our beloved Brotherhood I I say great, because 
of our wonderful possibilities and our unlimited re- 
sponsibility. How grateful we are for the many 
splendid organizations we have, and the wonderful 
work they are doing in the way of relief to the poor, 
lending comfort and cheer to the sick, and joy and 
gladness to others less fortunate than ourselves ! 

With all of the good work we are doing, with all 
of the splendid things that may be said of the Aid 
workers, I am wondering if we have yet attained to 
that which is the highest and the ideal goal for our- 
selves. We would not for a moment discourage the 
making of money and the giving of money, but I fear 
sometimes, sister workers, we are stressing money 
too much and neglect Aid work of more importance. 
This is where we need to guard ourselves in the meet- 
ings of our different Aids. Sometimes we get so busy 
we can scarcely take time for a period of devotion. 
Such an opportune time this is for our sisters to ex- 
press themselves in prayer, in a helpful thought, in 
suggestive helps to our officers. We need this period, 
and we must take time for it, if we would grow 
spiritually, and surely we all want to feel that we are 
experiencing a, sense of. growth. Along with these 
moments of prayer together, how about a time of 
prayer in our many homes? Would it not be a con- 
soling thought to know that, over our entire Brother- 
hood, the families were brought together sometime 
during the day or evening for Bible reading and 
prayer? Is it not an appalling fact that so many 
homes do not take time for thanks at the table, and do 
not want to consider time for a chapter from the Bible? 
Would we not be doing Aid work of untold value if 
we were the ones to bring about a reform in the use of 
our time? Would it not be an interesting report at 

(Continued on Page W 



40 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



AMONG THE CHURCHES 



Calendar for Sunday, January 20 

Sunday-school Lesson, Moses Called to Deliver Israel. — 
Ex. 3:1-12. 
Christian Worker*' Meeting, Tile Problem of Sin.— Rom. 

8: 1-4. ••■•:•-:-•:• 

Gains for the Kingdom 

Two additions to the Leedy church, Okla. 

Two baptisms in the Reedley church, Calif. 

Two baptisms in the Portland church, Ore. 

Eleven baptisms in the Topeco church, Va. ' 

Two baptisms in the West Branch church, 111. 

Eight baptisms in the Sunnyside church, Wash. 

Eleven baptisms in the Root River church, Minn. 

One baptism in the Panther Creek church, Iowa. 

One baptism in the Calvary church, Kansas City, Kans. 

Two baptisms in the Macdoel church, Calif.,— Bro. C. E. 
Davis, of Modesto, Calif., evangelist. 

Two accepted Christ in the Ross church, Ohio, — Bro. J. 
A. Guthrie, of Lafayette, Ohio, evangelist. 

Five additions to the Turkey Creek church, Ind., — Bro. 
Edw. Stump, of Walkerton, Ind., evangelist. 

Eleven were baptized and one awaits the rite in the 
Oneonta church, Ala., — Bro. A. M. Laughrun, of Jones- 
boro, Tenn., evangelist. 

Nine were baptized, two await the rite and four were re- 
claimed in the East Wichita church, Kans., — Bro. S. Z. 
Smith, of Sidney, Ohio, evangelist. 

Thirteen additions to the Graybill house, White Oak 
congregation, Pa., — Bro. Chas. Casscl, home minister, in 
charge; five additions at the Manheim house, same congre- 
gation, Bro. Rufus Bucher, of Mechanic Grove, Pa., evan- 
gelist; three more came after the meetings closed. 

* 4" 4* * 
Our Evangelists 

Bro. O. P. Haines, of Lima, Ohio, to begin Jan. 21 at the 
Union City church, Ind. 

Bro. O. H. Feiler, of McPherson, Kans., began Jan. 15 
at Oklahoma City, Okla. 

Bro. John R. Snyder, of Huntingdon, Pa., to begin about 
Feb. 3 at Manvel, Texas. 

Bro. Edgar Rothrock, of La Verne, Calif., began Jan. 15 
in the Reedley church, Calif. 

4* 4* 4* * 

Personal Mention 

Bro. B. F. Petry, R. 10, Eaton, Ohio, is open to an en- 
gagement as pastor. He could also assist meanwhile in 
some revival meetings during 1924. 

What would we do without our good friends? Just now 
we are indebted to Bro. W. B. Stover for contributions to 
our "Bystander's Notes." But there was room for only two 
of them this week. 

One by one the faithful fathers are passing on to the 

reward of their earthly labors. Eld. Moses Deardorff, 

whose home-going is recorded elsewhere in this issue, was 

~one of the pioneer preachers of Iowa and a leader in his 

day. 

A number of our congregations are having lecture 
courses this winter, we notice, in which men like Winger, 
Kurtz, Ober, Ellis and others are discussing vital questions 
pertaining to the progress of the Kingdom. It's a good 
idea. 

We beg pardon of both Bro. Chester E. Shuler, of Har- 
risburg, Pa., and Sister Elsie K. Sanger, of Sebring, Fla., 
for the mistake in our issue of Jan. 5 which credited to 
the latter the former's article entitled, "One Way to Please 
Him." 

Bro. William Johnson, of Wichita, Kans., preached his 
annual birthday sermon a short time ago and with char- 
acteristic vigor, we are informed, even if he did have to do 
it in a wheel chair and his years are verging on the nine- 
ties, if we mistake not. 

Bro. O. H. Feiler has moved his family to McPherson, 
where his children will have the opportunity, of a Chris- 
tian education. All correspondancc should be addressed 
to 133 Carey St., McPherson, Kansas. Bro. Feiler will de- 
vote all his time to the Evangelistic Field. 

Bro. A. D. Helser writes us from Africa under date of 
Nov. 24, 1923, enclosing an article written while he was 
still in bed, which will appear in these columns shortly. 
In his personal letter he says, along with other good 
things: "Sister Helser and Sister Kulp are here and we 
are alt happy in the service of the Lord. We are finding 
our Christ full of love and power. . . . Bro. Frantz, do 
you really feel we will have to wait for another generation 
to have enough stewards to expand our missionary .in- 
terests into Christ's will? I believe Christ is going to 



change this generation. It is the glory of the religion of 
Jesus that it transforms men's hearts." The address of 
our Africa missionaries is Garkida, Nigeria, via Jos, Nafa- 
da and Biu. 

Bro. Virgil C. Finnell, of North Manchester, Ind., Field 
Secretary for the General Temperance and Purity Com- 
mittee, was a recent visitor at the Publishing House. He 
considers the past year the most successful he has had in 
this work. He has been occupied mainly in the moun- 
tainous sections of Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, 
Tennessee and North Carolina. 

* ♦ ♦ ♦ 

Miscellaneous Items 

The Rossville church, Ind., has under consideration the 
building of a new churchhouse in Frankfort. 

The Jacobs Creek church has changed its name to Mt. 
Joy, Bro. Erank B. Myers, of Mt. Pleasant, Pa., tells us. 
With a name like that every member of the church ought 
to be happy. 

There are many ways to help the cause along. At 
Kingsley, Iowa, after the Christmas program was rendered 
the young people's class went to the homes of some who 
are unable to attend the church services and sang for 
them. 

It is pleasant to read of a congregation that broke all 
former records in Sunday-school attendance and offer- 
ings during 1923, but the best part of it is that the Roxbury 
church, Pa., is "planning again for big things this year." 
Is that what your church is doing? 

The Kenmare church, N. Dak., decided to try out the 
system of weekly offerings at the church services. It 
tried it and liked it so well that it has adopted the plan 
as a permanent feature of the worship. The number of 
congregations which do this increases, as it should. 

The Poplar Ridge church, Ohio, seems to be giving due 
attention to the various missionary, temperance and Chris- 
tian Workers' interests, but has judged it advisable to 
place them under the care of one committee. Maybe we 
will find out by and by the best way to do all these things. 
The La Verne church, Calif., where Bro. Edgar Rothrock 
entered on his new pastorate a few months ago, seems to 
be happy in supporting five missionaries on the foreign 
field. These are Bro. Lynn A. Blickenstaff and wife and 
Bro. John I. Kaylor in India, and Bro. Ernest Vaniman 
and wife in China. 

The Oneonta church, Ala., is making improvements in its 
house of worship, especially designed to afford better ac- 
commodations for the Sunday-school. The church is 
within easy reach from Birmingham and the members 
would appreciate visits by those who may be passing 
through that city. 

The Codorus church, Pa., appears to believe in organ- 
izing for work. It has Child Rescue, Temperance and 
Ministerial Committees. Of course it is not enough to ap- 
point a list of .committees, but a church must have the 
cause on its heart sufficiently to do something of this kind, 
or it is not likely to accomplish much. 

There are two things we like especially well about what 
the finance committee of the Greenmount church, Va., did 
lately. It "urged ministers and Sunday-school teachers to 
teach more the blessings of giving." Do you see the two 
fine things in that? "Teach more" is one of them. And 
the "blessings" of giving is the other. Suppose you for- 
get about the duty of giving for a little while and think 
about the blessings. Or don't you know of any? 

One of our contributors has received a letter requesting 
an article for the " Messenger " on the question of why we 
keep Sunday as the day of rest instead of Saturday. The 
author of the request neglects to sign his name. In the 
issue of July 21, 1923, appeared an article by Bro. James M. 
Moore on this same subject, which should clear up any 
questions our readers may have. Bro. Moore is thinking 
of putting this discussion in tract form for general dis- 
tribution. 

"A good many of our young people have been lost to 
the church. Many are still being lost. In nine out of ten 
of the cases a little investigation will disclose the fact that 
the parents have at just the wrong time either been very 
indifferent or have been uncomfortably close to some 
church trouble. That stirs my spirit to do something." 
And he did it. First, he preached a sermon about it. Then 
he wrote an article on the subject which will appear in 
our columns shortly. 

The District of Nebraska has reorganized some of its 
activities. The Temperance and Purity, Child Rescue, and 
Old Folks' Committees have been merged into one to 
be known as the Social Welfare Board. A Board of Reli- 
gious Education has been created. These two Boards and 
the Mission and Ministerial Boards, though each has its 
own field and duties, have been united into one organiza- 
tion called the United District Boards of the Church of 
the Brethren of Nebraska. There is more to the new ar- 
rangements than just this, of course, but perhaps this will 
give you the main idea. 



Special Notices 

District Treasurers Take Notice. — The assessment for 
Annual Meeting expenses for 1924 will be at the rate of 
three cents per member. Remittance of the amount should 
be in the hands of the undersigned not later than May 
first. — E. J. Stauffer, A. M. Treas., Mulberry Grove, Illinois. 

The District and Ministerial Meetings of Middle Dis- 
trict of Pennsylvania will be held in the Stonerstown 
Church April 8, 9, "and 10, 1924. All reports and matters of 
business intended to be printed in the program should be 
in«the hands of the secretary not later than the 20th of 
February, 1924.— Ira C Holsopple, Sec, Everett, Pa. 

Two Offers of Free Tithing Literature. — We hereby offer, 
free, postage paid, to any minister who asks fpr the num- 
ber needed, a sufficient quantity of the new pamphlet, 
"Winning Financial Freedom for Pastors and Churches," 
to furnish one copy to every member of the official boards 
of his church. We regard this as the most important 
pamphlet we have published in recent years. Also, our 
offer to furnish free, postage paid, the pamphlet, "Chris- 
tian Work for Laymen and Ministers" in sufficient quan- 
tities to supply one copy to every family-in any church and 
congregation, is- hereby extended until March 1, 1924. Al- 
ways give your denomination ; also mention the " Gospel 
M'essenger." — The Layman Company, 35 North Dearborn 
Street, Chicago, 111. 

Can Use Two Thousand Dollars a Month. — The 
Relief Committee has kept in touch with conditions 
in Germany through Brother Maynard Cassady who is a 
student abroad now. He has located a district that is 
desperately in need and informs us that if we can furnish 
$2,000 a month for the present, much suffering can be re- 
lieved. Relief work in Germany is administered largely by 
the Germans themselves under the direction of Americans. 
Since Brother Cassady is on the ground he can see that 
your funds will be justly and economically used. If the 
Lord puts it into your heart to feed the hungry make your 
contribution through your Relief Committee and we will 
have our own relief station at work in Germany. You 
will be called upon by various organizations to contribute 
to German relief. You will naturally respond. Whether 
we can furnish the $2,000 a month depends on your action. 
At present we have only $300 on hand for this purpose. 
Send your contribution to General Mission Board, Elgin, 
111., and designate it as German Relief.— J. E. Miller, Sec. 
Relief Committee. 

Forecast for the School for Country Church Leaders, 
Bethany Bible School, January 31 to February 8. Bulle- 
tins have been sent out to every minister in Ohio, Indiana, 
Michigan, Illinois, Minnesota, North Dakota, Iowa, Kan- 
sas, Missouri, Oklahoma and West Virginia, giving an out- 
line of the work. The program has been printed in the ■ 
" Gospel Messenger," for January 12. Already many in- 
quiries have come in asking information- concerning 
lodging, etc. A letter from Brother J. W. Barnett, pastor 
of the Church at Portland, Oregon, states that "only dis- 
tance keeps him from this fellowship." A few moving 
spirits in one District are endeavoring to get each church 
in the District to see the value of this enterprise and to 
send their pastor or ministers. Raphael Leatherman and 
W. W. Bane of Burlington, West Virginia, have written 
for reservations. Other reservations have been made 
and we only mention the above to show how far the inter- 
est has reached. Make up your mind to attend and write 
Bethany Bible School, 3435 Van Buren Street, Chicago, 111., 
to make reservations for board and lodging. For further . 
information write either Bethany Bible School or Home 
Department of the General Mission Board, Elgin, 111. 

4* 4* 4* 4* 
A Bystander's Notes 

In the India Field. — Our mission work in India keeps 
growing, yet there are times when It seems that what we 
depend upon most as a means to the end is suddenly cut 
off. Not long since, the Baroda State passed a resolution 
that meetings should not be held within the state during 
the winter months among the kali paraj people. While 
this was not intended for us, yet it affects the work at 
Vyara where Bro. J. M. Blough is now located. Faith 
looks ahead and tries to see what blessing may grow out of 
that which seems a hindrance for the present. 

India Is Discouraged. — The following advertisement ap- 
peared in a Reformed Hindoo weekly newspaper of Bom- 
bay not long ago : ""Discouragement is the lot of most 
lands today, and India is discouraged. This is a sad thing, 
for in an atmosphere of discouragement things great and 
noble do not thrive. The most terrible discouragement is 
that of heart and soul. If, indeed, our people are sick at 
heart and broken in spirit, there are indeed dark days 
ahead. But the great heart of the Infinite One is yearning 
over India. When he came into the world he said: 'Let 
not your heart be troubled.' He knows that inner trouble 
breaks a man's morale. He has comfort for India's sad 
heart. Hear him saying: 'As a mother comforteth, so will 
I comfort you.' Let India rise from the ashes of dis- 
couragement and seek his face. He is pleading still: 'Come 
unto me and I will give you rest.' It is the Voice of Jesus," 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



41 



AROUND THE WORLD 



Japan's Official Figures of the Earthquake 

japan recently gave out official figures concerning the 
earthquake and fire, which proved so disastrous. Accord- 
ing to these figures there were 192,000 dead and missing. 
Those injured totaled 102,000. In the destruction of prop- 
erty 585000 houses are reported to have been totally de- 
stroyed, and 126,000 were partially destroyed. These figures 
show that the first estimates of the disaster were not 

overdrawn. 

Pennsylvania's Sunday School Record 

The Pennsylvania Sabbath-school Association states that 
during the past year 8,252 new teacher-training classes 
were enrolled; 1,452 new young people's classes were 
organized, and 72,915 of the Sunday-school pupils were 
added to the church membership. The Sunday-school en- 
rollment for the State is 2,205,728, which is more than 25 
per cent of the State's population, and one-sixteenth of 
the entire Sunday-school enrollment of the world. 



Sorting Parcel Post Mail 

You have often been in a mailing room and seen the 
clerks sorting the mail into the sacks held in stationary 
racks. Recently the postoffice department has installed 
rotary racks to which are fastened bags with conspicuous 
tags. The mail comes in chutes to the sorters who are 
standing in their place, and as the proper sack reaches 
them they throw the mail into it. The number of sacks for 
every section is in proportion to the amount of mail going 
to each destination. The clerks by this method are able 
to sort mail twice as fast as before. 



Chinese Language for Business 

Long ago the missionaries and governmental agencies 
have known that the only way to do business with the 
Chinese is to learn their language. Both the church and 
the government have required their agents to study the 
Chinese language so as to be able to do business with the 
Chinese in their own language. For once, however, busi- 
nesshas lagged behind missions and the government, and 
has not required its employes to learn the Chinese lan- 
guage. But business has discovered that this is detrimental 
and there is a tendency now to require business agents to 
study Chinese, at least sufficiently to enter into contracts 
and perform routine business. The study of Chinese, due 
to better methods, is no longer the task it once was. In 
one year a business agent can learn the language sufficient- 
ly well for business purposes. 



The Bok Peace Award 

The Edward W. Bok Peace Award has been given to 
No. 1469, the judges considering this plan the best of the 
22,165 plans presented. The author of this plan has not yet 
been announced, but $50,000 has been awarded him, and the 
second $50,000 will be awarded him in case the country, 
which is being polled now, will approve bis plan. The 
large response in this contest shows that many are serious- 
ly considering the horrors of war, and are anxious to find 
some better way of settling disputes. Of course no peace 
plan will work so long as nations continue to arm them- 
selves and harbor suspicion and hatred against all other 
nations. You will be given an opportunity to vote for or 
against this plan. Whether you vote for it or not one 
thing every lover of peace should do, and that is whenever 
an opportunity comes to memorialize any of our govern- 
ment officials or whenever an opportunity comes to speak 
for peace he should improve it. Thus you help to foster 
peace and when war does come your record will show 
that you have worked against it. 



Some Things Prohibition Has Done 

According to Wayne B. Wheeler in The American Issue, 
prohibition is responsible for much of our country's pros- 
perity. Here are a few of the cumulative results of four 
years of sober industry. The death rate has been cut to 
the extent of saving 873,000 lives; preventable illness de- 
creased to the equivalent of 1,747,950 people continuously 
ill for one year; drunkenness arrests reduced by 500,000 
annually; the penal ratio decreased resulting in 20,000 
fewer persons being committed to penal institutions in the 
four dry years; intemperance eliminated as a cause of 
poverty, releasing $74,000,000 licensed saloons; over a bil- 
lion dollars added to our savings accounts and our new 
life insurance policies increased over eleven billion dollars; 
industrial accidents lowered by a quarter of a million an- 
nually; roads made safer for the 4,000,000 automobiles 
manufactured last year; home building increased by 2,000 
more new homes built per month in spite of higher costs; 
a daily Pentecost of 3,000 new members added to the 
churches; throngs of youths and girls sent to high 
school and college by eliminating the liquor drain on the 

family purse. 

Mexico's Revolution 

Every four years we elect a president. Should our 
president die, the vice-president immediately assumes the 
duties of the office, and the government moves on without 
any break, Such i§ the order among a people who are 



capable of self-government and who believe in a republi- 
can form of govenment. In Mexico they do it just a little 
different. Their elections come through revolutions, and 
that is why they have a revolution in Mexico at present. 
We may not like kings, but unless a people will submit to 
a popular vote, a republic is hardly the best form of 
government for them. But if Mexico insists on getting its 
president through revolution, there is not much that can 
be' done to better conditions. As on former occasions, in 
this revolution again both the government and the rebels 
look to the United States for arms and ammunition. 
Though we may not do much to secure peace for Mexico 
there are always those who are ready to furnish the 

munitions of war. 

Does Germany Need Food? 
For some time papers and magazines have been dis- 
cussing conditions in Germany. Some say Germany needs 
food, while others say she does not. Some say that Ger- 
many is in need of food but, having just been our enemy, 
we should not feed the starving, but should remember the 
Lusitania. Others say that the war is over and now is 
the time to feed our enemies. Undoubtedly there is, 
propaganda on both sides. In December Bro. Maynard 
Cassady, who has a fellowship in Germany and is a student 
there now, wrote at some length concerning conditions. 
Following is a part of his letter; 

" There is great need for relief in Germany. There is no 
doubt in my mind about it, because of what I have seen. 
During the last year and up until September of this year, 
it was largely the middle class of people who suffered. 
The fall of the mark deprived thousands of such people of 
every means of support that they possessed. They were 
the salaried class, the people with small fortunes laid 
aside in the bank, the substantial class who are interested 
in the moral and cultural life of their country, the class 
that is the backbone of any civilized country. They were 
often too proud to admit poverty, for they were not of the 
class that usually faces poverty. As a result many cases 
of starvation were reported to the workers. Thousands 
came into dire and almost a completely destitute state. In 
September relief workers in Munich were feeding approxi- 
mately 105,000 people, just one-sixth of the population of 
that city. Of these 45,000 were officially called 'entirely 
dependent' upon relief aid. This one city is sufficient as 
illustrative. Babies often came into the world with not a 
stitch of clothing to receive them. With the stabilizing of 
the mark has come the accompanying rise in prices, the 
rise in cost of material, the fall of the export market and, 
to cap this series of events, the shutting down of factories 
and the present unemployment situation. At present some 
two and one-half million are out of employment. Of 
course this is increasing the need. Formerly the worker 
made out tolerably well. He got enough to buy him food 
if nothing else. His wages were raised sufficiently with 
each tragic fall of the mark, to keep him in pace with the 
corresponding change of prices. But now that he is out of 
employment the situation grows worse. He faces a list of 
prices from four to six hundred per cent higher than they 
were three months ago. Clothes are impossible to him. 
The chief foods of nourishing value are absolutely beyond 
his empty purse. Milk, eggs, lard and butter are scarcely 
possible for the rich (whom of course we have with us 
always). 

"Situations have changed with almost lightning rapid- 
ity in this country, and each situation brings new problems 
and new adaptations. Many get through the critical stage 
unscathed, but there is ever an increasing number who lag 
farther and farther behind with each rise and fall of the 
sad affairs. Suffice to say I've seen children poorly 
clothed, their little naked bodies shining through a single 
ragged cloak. Many have gone barefoot through Novem- 
ber. I've seen the crowds fighting for bread, just bread. 
I've known of many a home that has gotten permission to 
keep the children from school because they have no 
clothes. This is now allowed and suggested by the state. 
I've by no means been looking for such things; these little 
episodes have just accidentally crept to the surface of my 
chance experience. I've been among the class which has 
more or less kept its head above water. Among them I've 
seen a well educated and cultured woman come to me and 
beg me to aid in selling her jewelry. I've seen a newspaper 
editor in one of the large cities too poor to offer us any- 
thing to eat in his home, as fine German hospitality would 
ordinarily demand. I know a family whose business was 
worth $10,000 a year ago and now it is worth $4,000, that 
is, their actual stock has decreased in amount and value 
to that because they could buy no new stock with the 
worthless money they received. I have a young German 
friend who had with his mother and sister $100,000 before 
the mark fell. Now he is supporting himself and helping 
support them on seven dollars a week, the best wages paid 
in a company employing forty men. He pays twenty-five 
cents for one cooked meal a day and for the others he has 
coffee and bread in his room. A cheap hat which he just 
• lifted ' today and which he showed me, cost him seven and 
one-half dollars. A finer Christian chap is hard to find. 
This is just the fife as I saw it normally, without inves- 
tigating." 

Later.— After the above was in type further word was 
rereived from Bro. Cassady. This led to action on the 
part of the Relief Committee as found in another column. 



THE QUIET HOUR 



The Blessed Results of Obedience 

Isaiah 48: 18 

For Week Beginning January 27 

Divine Commandments Deserve to Be Obeyed. — Only a 
lack of thought can account for disrespect to divine law. 
One who ponders with open mind the mysteries of human 
life, and considers the limitations of mankind, will readily 
concede the necessity for guidance from power and wis- 
dom greater than that of man. The commandments of 
God arc not grievous (1 John 5:3) and arbitrarily fixed, 
independent of the nature of men. They are designed to 
teach men to live properly and to lead them in the way 
of their highest good. See verse 17 of the textual pas- 
sage. God always keeps himself near the soul he guides 
(Psa. 32:8). The relations between an earthly parent and 
child, or teacher and pupil, are weak parables of those 
between God and his spiritual children. Study each verse 
of Psalm 119 for various words which express the idea 
of divine commandments. Then meditate on Psalm 19:7-11 
for the gracious qualities of divine law.' 

They Who Obey Divine Laws Have Peace. — This is one 
of the large and inclusive results of obedience. . All human 
feeling is underlaid with a deep desire for peace. There 
is so much of conflict and unrest in the world, The only 
solution for it lies in the agreement of men with God. It 
is first of all a personal state of mind and condition of 
heart. The legacy which Jesus left with his disciples was 
an inner power and satisfaction which can come from none 
but God (John 14:27). It is the privilege of any man or 
woman who makes close connection with God (Philpp. 4:6, 
7). The peace of God "calms the passions, preserves the 
purity of conscience, is inseparable from righteousness, 
unites us to God and strengthens us against temptations. 
The peace of the soul consists in an absolute resignation 
to the will of God." It must be an individual condition 
before it can apply to groups and nations. Deep-running, 
quiet waters, flowing calmly on despite storms, are very 
expressive of spiritual restfulness. The Scripture employs 
this figure often. Compare Psa. 23 ; 2 and Rev. 22 : 1. 

They Who Obey Divine Laws Become Righteous.— They 
are on the way to Godlikcness, because they conform to 
divine thought and love and service. We can sit by the 
seashore and watch the waves come rolling in, increasing 
in frequency and height according to the stimulus which 
gives them momentum. But we can never count the last 
one. So is the righteousness of God's obedient children. 
The Tightness of spiritual character is always richer, bright- 
er, better, because every law of God observed leads to 
another blessing beyond. "The path of the righteous is 
as the dawning light, that shineth more and more unto 
the perfect day" (Prov. 4:18). The living example of 
Jesus teaches us a personal application of righteous prin- 
ciples. Those same principles, applied to any nation, would 
mean a fulfillment of the prophef's plea to " let justice roll 
down as waters and righteousness as a mighty stream." 

These Blessed Results Form an Appeal to the Wayward.— 
That is the use made of them in the text. The people 
in Judah in general had strayed far from the command- 
ments of God. It was not the transgression of the ignorant 
and neglected, but of the instructed and wilful. See verses 
4 and 8. From a personal and national standpoint they 
could verify the fact that "there is no peace, saith Je- 
hovah, to the wicked" (verse 22). Verse 1 asserts their 
lack of righteousness. The same picture has been repro- 
duced again and again in human history. There is plenty 
of basis for a tender appeal to the wayward today like 
that appeal of the prophet: "O that thou hadst hearkened." 
Shall we not put it "O that thou wouldest hearken," and 
seek with our might to lead sinners in the path which 
will bring the blessings of obedience? 

Suggestions for Meditation 

The verifying of Psa. 19: 7-11 in personal experience. 

The peace of God as an antidote to the storms of life. 

Have I ever known obedience to increase righteousness? 

What sort of appeal won my respect for divine law? 

Is my evangelistic plea like that of Isaiah? 
A Prayer 

Forgiving Father! We recognize thine eternal good- 
ness in thy constant, loving appeal to those who are going 
astray from that which means their own peace and right- 
eousness. In so far as we have tested thy holy law we 
have found it restoring to the soul. Our ventures into 
disobedience have been fruitless and painful. Grant us 
stronger wills to obey and greater joy in performance^ 
Forgive us for ever thinking we might change the world 
without ourselves being changed. Dwell thou first within 
our own selves, that we may declare thy goodness to 
others out of our own spiritual health, In the name of 
pur righteous Redeemer, Amen. J, H. H. 



42 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



An Appeal to Our Aid Society Sisters 

(Continued from Page 39) 

our great Conference gathering, if our Aid secretary 
could give us the number of family altars, in our big 
family, the Aid organization? True, mission work 
we may be doing in our own congregations, to our 
next-door neighbors and, for aught we know, in some 
of our own homes, if we would be the ones to inspire 
the beginning of this one thing so needful in Christian 
( ?) America — the family altar. By' so doing we 
would be rendering service to our pastors, our elders, 
in a way that would mean more to them than splendid 
gifts of material value. 

This is an interesting age in which we are living, 
an age of new inventions, of reformation, of new ideals 
for womankind, an age of interest in genernl for the 
many good things we have, as well as an age of in- 
creased responsibility because of the many evils 
prevalent in modern Christendom. May I come to 
our Aid members, just now, with the plea that we are 
not as loyal to the church of our choice, as we should 
be, when we wholly ignore the church rulings on the 
dress question? We, as a people, have stood for 
simplicity these many years, and why should we now 
go to the other extreme, superfluity in dress, when this 
is becoming a discussed problem? When* women's 
clubs are treating it from a standpoint of demoraliza- 
tion, when other churches are beginning to realize the 
fact that our dress is somewhat of an index to our 
character, why should we, a body of intelligent women, 
at this crucial moment, rise in our own determination 
and say by our actions, " We'll do as we please. The 
church has no right to say what we shall wear"? 
We speak of ourselves as children of the mother 
church. How we must grieve her when we say we 
will not heed her advice! How her mother heart must 
be torn by our rebellious spirit ! How our own hearts 
are crushed when the children, whom God has given 
us, show a spirit of retaliation and contempt for our 
good advice and teaching! Should we expect more of 
our children than the church should expect of us? 
Is the sister with bobbed hair, the sleeveless dress, her 
bosom exposed, her arms and hands conspicuous with 
jewelry, a credit to our beloved church when she is 
at the communion table with a prayer veil on? Does 
it look like mockery. Aid sisters, when the large 
business house — Marshall Field's store, of Chicago — 
will not permit any of these things, and we encourage 
them? If the business establishments can not permit 
such and keep their good record, can we as sisters do 
some of these things and bring honor to our church's 
fair name? Should we expect more in the business 
world in the way of sane dress than in the Christian 
world ? 

Our government dictates what its soldiers shall 
wear; our civil authorities their men's uniform; the 
many lodges their emblem of recognition; the tem- 
perance workers, their white ribbon explanation; the 
Red Cross its badge of sendee. But when the church 
wants to say something of what we shall wear, we are 
ready to declare, " We will not heed man-made rules. " 

Women's federation clubs of some of our Western 
States organized themselves to bring about a return 
to sane dressing, pronouncing the dress of the major- 
ity of women today as being the cause of the down- 
fall of our men, both morally and financially. A lady, 
lecturing to a group of Aid workers, said this: 
" Eighty-five per cent of our money is spent by the 
women for dress, and fifteen per cent of this amount 
for clothes that are never worn out. " 

Is that an ugly fact to look at, sisters, and must 
we share our part of the guilt? This assertion was 
read in a mothers' paper : " Women of true refinement 
do not adopt the extremes in style as we have them 
today. " 

Are we encouraging the White Slave traffic? -If we 
are dressing otherwise than modestly we are. With 
our faces made up with lipstick, eyebrows penciled, 
cheeks red and yellow, with our bodies dressed and 
adorned to correspond with our face in ridiculousness. 
we should not wonder if we are approached by men of 
the lower type. We are inviting their attention. Does 
this sound harsh? Get some of the splendid books 
on social purity and read them; or. if they will not 
convince you, talk with some of our women reformers 



and see what they have to say of the effect of dress 
on morals. 

A lady doing this kind of work, representing one of 
our largest churches, said this, recently : " How sorry 
I am to know that the women of your church are dis- 
carding the little bonnet ! It stands for so much. " 
How does this appeal to us, dear Aid workers ? Does 
it make us feel as if we had made the wrong decision 
in taking our stand against our Conference rules in re- 
gard to our head apparel? 

If we are not going to be ^distinctive church, sis- 
ters, why have a Church of the Brethren ? Surely, we 
do not want to see her walls crumble and fall. Surely, 
we want the church of our choice to grow and be- 
come stronger. But are we helping her growth when 
we denounce her teaching and her decisions? "It 
stands for so much. " Is it not our badge, showing 
where we belong? Are you ashamed of your profes- 
sion ? And still we sing, " I love thy church, O God. " 
Why should I be ashamed of my bonnet if I love my 
church ? 

Sister Aid workers, what a great power we are, 
but how much more we might accomplish, how much 
more powerful we might make ourselves, if we were 
more united on this unsettled question of our sisters! 

We have a divided sentiment. Churches with a 
different understanding, homes with their members 
not in unison, all because of the bonnet (and " it stands 
for so much ") and prayer veil. 

Sister workers, if Conference has made a serious 
mistake in ruling that our sisters' headdress should be 
bonnets and hoods, would it not be the honorable way 
to send an appeal to Conference, rather than to show 
the spirit of determination to dress as we please, re- 
gardless of decisions? Then, if Conference felt it 
wise to retain the same rulings for its members, should 
we not be willing to do her bidding? 

We are Aid workers. Might we not show our 
humble submissiveness on this question, and be willing 
to aid the church in her teaching, in her doctrine, in 
her stand for right living? 

Our Simple Life Committee has expressed ■ itself 
as being anxious for us to aid them. Are you willing? 
Am I ? By our advocating the simple life in our eating, 
in our dressing, in our every-day living? 

Dear Aid coworkers, have I said too much? If I 
have, will you aid by telling me so? If what I have 
said is worth while, may I aid you by asking you 
prayerfully to consider what I have written? 

Salem, Va. , , 

Marriage 

BY SARAH M. SAUNDERS 

Most persons, in speaking or writing on this subject, 
treat it so lightly that we are inclined to believe they 
consider marriage not a very serious matter. Some 
even treat this subject as a matter of business agree- 
ment only, which can be easily annulled. 

In this day young people often rush recklessly into 
this most serious and solemn of our earthly engage- 
ments. Many people regard marriage as merely a 
financial transaction. They do not realize that it is a 
matter which our Creator established. " In the begin- 
ning God created man in his own image, created them 
male and female," and thus instituted the marriage re- 
lation (Gen. 1:26-29). 

I believe that parents ought to instruct their children 
thoroughly, after they become old enough to contem- 
plate marriage, on the great and solemn responsibility 
resting on the marriage relation. Young women too 
often receive the impression (and that from their 
mothers) that to get married is the climax of all earthly 
aspirations and they will marry to escape the stigma of 
being called an "old maid." Were they properly 
instructed they would realize that it were far better 
to die an " old maid " than to die of grief or a broken 
heart by marrying a drunkard, or, what is worse, to 
have their gray hairs brought down to the grave in 
sorrow over a prodigal son or a thoughtless daughter. 
" Marriage is honorable," say the Scriptures. But too 
often it is dishonored by thoughtlessness and ignorance, 
and many are the mental and physical deformities as 
the fruit of it. 

Battle Creek, Mich. 



CORRESPONDENCE 



DIARY LEAVES: AN AFTERMATH 

Usually the beginning of one of my missionary addresses 
is a study of the religious temperament, to the end that we 
may better understand India, which is Mystic. I present 
the thought something like this: There are four differing 
religious temperaments, as follows: Rational, Traditional, 
Social and Mystic. The rational is that of clear thought. 
What it can understand it is willing to accept; what it 
can not understand it will not accept. When confronted 
by a problem, the rational temperament will sit down and 
work it out, and then give itself credit for having done 
so. It is easy for the rational temperament to reject the 
virgin birth, because it can not be explained. It is difficult 
for the rational to be deceived, for it insists on a clear in- 
terpretation. There is no emotion here. It makes as near 
as possible approach to pure reason. It is clear, cold 
thought. And the best example of the rational tempera- 
ment is found in the Unitarian Church. 

The traditional dwells largely in the past. Not that it 
is not active now, but it idealizes the past. The best ever 
is found in history. Was something good a hundred years 
ago? That is good now, for it has been tried out and 
proven. The ideas of our grandparents are more to be 
stressed than our ideas, because they are the thoughts of 
mature minds. If a record of a thousand years ago is avail- 
able, that record is of extreme value. God spoke to the 
saints of long ago. We have no such saints now. The 
present is not to be trusted; ourselves are not to be 
trusted; what we have we must hold to, and hold tightly, 
lest we lose it. The traditional type is the best always to 
conserve the good. It is essentially conservative. You 
can trust a man of this type in being true to his church, 
according to his knowledge. And the best example of the 
traditional is the Roman Catholic Church. 

The social type is that which enjoys the presence of the 
whole group. Did you have a good meeting today? The 
answer of the socially minded man will depend on the at- 
tendance at the meeting. If there were many present he will 
say it was fine ; if there were few present he will say it was 
just fair and nothing extra. He believes in the whole group 
taking hold. If it is a day to the woods, he says, "Let's 
all go." He does not much enjoy being alone. The deep 
woods and a day absolutely to himself he does not enjoy. 
He is not an enthusiast for secret prayer, though he cer- . 
tainly prays and believes in prayer. He seeks to make 
the church grow. He wants all to find themselves at home 
within her fold. The best example of the social type is 
the whole Protestant group of evangelical churches in the 
United States. 

The fourth is the mystic. When confronted with a 
problem for solution, the mystic type of mind will ask God 
to help work it out; then when it is solved, will give God 
the credit for doing it. The mystic can easily accept the 
inexplainable, for it counts that as a challenge to faith. 
It believes in visions and dreams, and that one is just as 
liable to see a vision now as was any one in past years, 
for God is the same Person, the great Reality with whom 
we have to deal. It enjoys being alone, enjoys the secret 
day in the woods, the hour of quiet meditation, the secret 
prayer. The mystic is shocked at the religious views of the 
rational type. The mystic is somewhat emotional, would 
rather go to the house of weeping than to the house of 
laughter. And the best example of the mystic type of mind, 
among nations, is perhaps India today. 

When Bro. J. W. Lear and myself were in Ohio, recently, 
and he got this description several times from my pres- 
entation of the problem, we fell to discussing the diag- 
nosis of ourselves. How much traditional, how much 
rational, how much social, and how much mystic is each 
one of us? I told him my estimate of myself, and asked 
him to check up on it. Then I asked him to give the 
measure of himself. And he did. And I checked up on 
that. So together we worked out, not only ourselves, but 
beginning on ourselves, we also took the measure, the 
religious photograph, of some others. Herewith I take the 
liberty of presenting the photo of thirteen persons, includ- 
ing ourselves, and arranging them in alphabetical order. 
If any one thinks we missed it, either on ourselves or on 
them, a more correct diagnosis would be welcome, most 
surely: 

Rational Traditional Social Mystic 

Bonsack, Chas. D 10 10 60 20 

Early, Henry C S5 20 IS 10 

Ellis. Charles C 25 IS 30 30 

Frantz. Edward 50 10 25 IS 

Hay, Edyth Hillery, ....- — 30 20 50 

Hoff, Emanuel B., 20 15 SO 15 

Kum, Daniel W., 50 — 40 10 

Lear, John W 25 15 40 20 

Miller, John E 60 — 40 — 

Stahly, Cora 30 — 55 IS 

Stover, Wilbur B., 10 15 60 15 

Wieand, Albert C 20 25 25 30 

Winger, Otho 25 15 50 10 

The list might easily be made a great deal longer, but 
thirteen is a good stopping place. However, I would like 
to add just a bit, as follows: 

President Coolidge 75 25 — — 

President Harding — — 60 40 

James Bissett Pratt 75 — 25 — 

Mn. Jamea B. Pratt, — 65 25 10 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



43 



It is interesting to make a study of denominations on 
this same basis. It is interesting to study yourself, and 
then compare yourself with others whom you know, and 
study them for the comparison. It must always come out 
100%- A loving son will find difficulty in limiting the 
diagnosis to 100%, for he will say: "Father is rational, he 
thinks right through a thing; father is traditional, he 
conserves alt the good I ever heard about; father is social, 
there is none like him; father is mystic, I remember see- 
ing him alone in prayer when he did not know I was look- 
ing: also, tears came to his eyes when I asked his pardon 
one day." But the proposition lies in making the equation 
as true as possible to the facts of the case. Even then 
two persons may not agree in the findings. 

Mount Morris, Illinois. Wilbur B. Stover. 



SOME OBSERVATIONS OF A TRAVELER IN SOUTH- 
WESTERN MISSOURI AND NORTHWESTERN 
ARKANSAS 

There are many fathers and mothers in the United 
States who are anxious to move where the children can 
get a high school education and not be isolated from the 
church. We have four or five good places in our District. 
Here at Carthage we have a fine high school and a church 
in town. The work is now in the hands of Brother and 
Sister Earl R. Myers. If you wish to consider such a 
move, write Bro. Myers and he will give you any informa- 
tion desired. 

Cabool is also a high school town. The church work is 
to be built up by Brother and Sister J. W. Sala who are 
now moving there. If you want any information about the 
town and country around Cabool, write Bro. J. W. Sala or 
Maynard Neighbors, of Cabool. 

In Nevada we have a churchhouse, and the work is to 
he opened up by the Mission Board in the near future, if 
present plans are carried out. Nevada has a fine high 
school and is at present erecting more buildings for fu- 
ture needs. Houses are reasonably cheap in the vicinity 
of the church. Fruit growing and chicken raising are now 
demanding the attention of some of the people around 
there. Truck raising is also profitable. 

The new churchhouse at Mountain Grove wilt command 
the attention of many because of the splendid high school 
at that place. The churchhouse is at the edge of town and 
can be conveniently reached by members living in town. 
The large group of young people will appeal to any young 
person. The man who is interested in chicken raising 
should write to J. M. Neher or E. R. Harris about the op- 
portunities in that line. 

Jasper and Fairview have high schools and the mem- 
bers there will welcome all to their midst. Write Bro. D. 
D. Hamer at Jasper, Mo., and he will give you information 
because he has charge of some work each day in the 
school. Write Bro. W. R. Argabright, Fairview, Mo., as 
to the high school at that place. t h. Morris. 

Carthage, Mo. . ^ , 

MOSES DEARDORFF 

Moses Deardorff was the son of Andrew and Catherine 
DeardorfF. He was -born in East Berlin, Pa., Dec. 15, 1844, 
and was the youngest of ten children. At the age of nine 
he moved with his parents to Franklin Grove, 111., where he 
grew to manhood. He married Mary C. Fiscel Oct. 27, 
1867. There were two sons. He with his family moved to 
Iowa in 1871, locating on a farm southeast of Yale. In 
1893 they moved to Yale where they have since resided. 

In 1876 he was baptized and became a member of the 
Church of the Brethren. In 1877* he was elected to the 
office of deacon ; in 1878 he was elected to the ministry and 
was ordained in 1905, remaining faithful to his God and 
his church. He devoted a number of years to evangelis- 
tic work, holding meetings in many of the States. During 
his ministerial life he baptized 355 applicants, performed at 
least 192 marriages and preached 252 funerals. 

Bro. Deardorff was a man of strong convictions and 
character, and many talents, all of which he willingly used 
and gave to the cause of righteousness and truth. He was 
a good husband and father, a good neighbor in the com- 
munity" a good citizen of the town, and 'a loyal and devoted 
minister with clear interpretation of the Scriptures and a 
forceful delivery. 

Words can not measure the influence of his life, and 
while God has given and taken again, he has not taken all 
lie gave, for his kindly deeds, his helpful, cheerful and en- 
couraging words, and his life of love will live on in the 
hearts of men until eternity. He bore his eleven years of 
affliction with Christian fortitude and patience. He died at 
bis home in Yale Dec. 23, 1923, aged seventy-nine years 
and eight days. He leaves his wife, one brother, two sons, 
fourteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. 

Services were held at the Brethren church near Panora 
by Eld. D. W. Wise, assisted by Wm. Cordis. Interment in 
the cemetery near by. E. D. Fiscel. 

Yale, Iowa. . .» . 

YOUNG PEOPLE'S CONFERENCE OF NORTHWEST- 
ERN OHIO 

Plans and prayer had been the order of the day for some 
time, as many of the earnest workers of the District felt 
the need of a young people's department. The Board of 
Religious Education had also been looking forward to 



such an organization, hence information gathered by one of 
their number was presented at our District Sunday-school 
and Ministerial Meeting in August. Bro. C. H. Sham- 
berger arranged to be with us over the week-end following 
Thanksgiving. Fostoria was selected as the place of meet- 
ing, and special invitations were sent to the young people 
of the other churches in the District, thus arousing interest 
in every section. 

The first service was at 7 P. M., Nov. 30. Bro. Sham- 
berger gave an illustrated address, setting forth the work 
in other Districts. Dec. 1 we met at 6 : 30 for the Morning 
Watch. During the forenoon session Miss Vera Ingle very 
ably presented the subject, "The Need of a Young People's 
Department in Northwestern Ohio." Bro. Shamberger 
then discussed the "Program for Our Young People's 
Work," a fitting complement to the need as previously 
set. forth. The fellowship period was much enjoyed, giv- 
ing opportunity to meet old friends and make new ones. 

Saturday afternoon open discussion was given on or- 
ganization. Sentiment seemed ripe to go ahead with the 
work at once, forming a temporary organization, awaiting 
the sanction of our District Meeting for permanent results. 
Elmer Marks, of Pioneer, was chosen president; Morris 
Guthrie, of Lafayette, vice-president; Ada Miller, of Lima, 
secretary; Lee Freed, of Williamstown, treasurer. 

At 6: 30 P. M. very impressive vesper services were con- 
ducted by Miss Villa Witmore, followed by the music 
hour. Special numbers were given by most of the churches 
in the District, and were greatly appreciated by a full 
house. Brp. Shamberger then addressed us on the subject, 
"How Big Am I?" This became the personal question of 
each one present, and many are still measuring themselves 
by the perfect pattern. 

Sunday's service was the climax of a good program. 
Again at 6 : 30 we met for the Morning Watch in charge of 
C. A. Kintner. At 9 A. M. Sunday-school convened. After 
the worship period Bro. W. D. Landes had charge of the 
lesson. He is a natural-born teacher, very studious, and 
with that humility of character so typical of the true 
Christian. His exposition was splendid, and "The Power 
of the Holy Spirit" was more fully realized than ever be- 
fore. 

Bro. Shamberger then delivered his masterpiece, "The 
Challenge of the Church to Our Young People." Many 
young men and women were impressed to yield their lives 
more fully to the Lord, every avenue of service being held 
up as service for the Lord. Golden Rule Day was observed, 
each one being given the privilege of contributing to the 
relief of the suffering. 

The Board of Religious Education is very grateful to 
Bro. Shamberger, to the pastor, Fred Fair, and to the peo- 
ple of the Fostoria church, to all singers and speakers, to 
all who helped make this first conference in Northwestern 
Ohio a great success. Mary L. Cook. 

Marion, Ohio. .♦• 

WELLS BY THE WAYSIDE 
Oakland, Calif., Dec. 8 to 12, 1923 

I take it for granted that the majority of the "Mes- 
senger" readers are more or less interested in the Golden 
Gate Church, situated at 1917 40th Ave., Oakland, Calif., 
of which Eld. W. M. Piatt and his good wife have charge. 
It was our privilege to worship with these good people, 
in all of their services, Dec. 9. It has frequently been 
stated that a church of our denomination in one of the 
bay cities, aside from the generally-accepted need for a 
church in a large city, would prove of inestimable value as 
a home for our outgoing and incoming missionaries to the 
orient. And so it has proven to be. Though the church 
here is, comparatively, in its infancy, a number of our 
missionaries already have enjoyed its blessings. What a 
joy it must be to spend the last days in the homeland with 
kind brethren and sisters in our own church, and then be 
accompanied by them to the departing ship 1 Or, sim- 
ilarly, missionaries, wearied and fatigued by a long sea 
voyage, to find here a welcome and resting place before 
starting across the continent to their homes. 

From its very infancy, I have felt a more than usual 
interest in this church, and it was a great pleasure to be 
able to see it, and to find such capable and consecrated 
people at the head of it. Though this church is young, 
it has had its trying times, as well as its encouraging 
seasons. When Brother and Sister Piatt took up the work 
it was anything but encouraging, but the membership has 
rallied to their support, and the church and Sunday-school 
arc enjoying a healthy growth, and are gaining the confi- 
dence of the people of the community. A fine and sub- 
stantial church building, completed and dedicated last 
summer, is filling a long-felt need. The contractor, Bro. H. 
R. Livingston, of Empire, certainly has given them a good 
job for the money received. Bro. Piatt told me that there 
still is an indebtednessof about $5,000. The building former- 
ly used as a church has been converted into a good, com- 
fortable parsonage; a garage has been erected and a con- 
crete drive made to it. As an evidence that Bro. Piatt is 
not afraid to do more than he gets paid for, we found him 
painting the parsonage while there. 

This church very greatly misses her half dozen young 
people who are away at school preparing themselves for 
better work for the Master. And so the help of Sister 
Vesta Sanger is very much appreciated, while she is at- 
tending the University of California, at Berkeley. She 



teaches the young people. One of the greatest needs of 
this church is more efficient workers. We enjoyed very 
much a visit at the home of Bro. Joseph Miller, with whom 
we formerly worshiped in Pennsylvania. He took us to 
the University of California, and with Sister Sanger as 
guide, we saw the most interesting points. From the top 
of the Campanile, over two hundred feet high, one has a 
wonderful view of the bay cities. The new stadium seats 
over 72,000 people. This large university has a branch at 
Los Angeles. One of the boasts of California is its fine 
schools, colleges and universities. Bro. Piatt took me one 
evening over the neighboring city of Alameda, which is 
located on an island. These four large cities, together with 
several smaller towns, constitute one very large city, that 
is growing at a tremendous rate. New homes are spring- 
ing up almost everywhere. 

Modesto and Empire, Calif., Dec. 12 to 18 

The homes in which we visited during our stay here, 
were those of Elders Levi Winklebleck and O. E. Messa- 
mer and Bro. Jacob G. Miller, in Modesto; and Eld. S. F. 
Sanger and Brethren W. H. Johnson, H. R. Livingston, and 
Myron Beekley at Empire. We were only a short time 
in Eld. Winkleblcck's home when he told us that they 
were going to have an all-day love feast the coming Sat- 
urday at the Empire church, of which he is elder. For 
this we were glad, first because we had enjoyed only one 
love feast during the fall, and second, because we had not 
been to an all-day love feast for a number of years. 

The people began to gather at ten o'clock, though the 
services did not begin till a half hour later. The theme of 
the sermon was "Love." We then repaired to the large 
basement, where a bountiful dinner was served free to all. 
This reminded us of how we used to do in Pennsylvania 
years ago. In the afternoon the church met again for the 
election of deacons. Eld. J. W. Deardorff, of the Water- 
ford church, and the writer had charge of this meeting. 
Brethren E. A. Fry, Walter Leib and Isaac Bashor were 
elected. Sunday forenoon, after the Sunday-school hour. 
Brother and Sister Leib were installed with great solemni- 
ty. In the evening the theme was " Christ Is All." 

The Empire church was organized March 14, 1909, with 
fewer than a dozen members. Their large church was 
erected in 1910 and dedicated in the spring of 1911. From 
the beginning this church enjoyed a marvelous growth 
by immigration, and the number of members rose to above 
300, scattered over a large territory. Out of this church 
have been organized the Patterson, Waterford, Modesto 
and Golden Gate churches, leaving the mother church still 
a membership of about 235. Almost every State has given 
its contribution in members to this church, among them 
being a large number of ministers, elders, and deacons. 
Some of these are old men, who came here largely be- 
cause of the good climate and excellent church privileges. 
At present there are fourteen ministers, all elders but two, 
and about the same number of deacons. 

Any congregation, made up of members from so many 
State Districts, is bound to have various ideas of church 
• government, often causing contentions and disagreements 
that retard the advancement of the Kingdom. This church 
has had some unpleasant experiences along this line. Not- 
withstanding, this church has been successful in saving 
nearly all its children to the church, and has a fine body of 
earnest young members, who, with proper encouragement 
and leadership, will do good work. There is no other de- 
nomination working here, and the opportunities for evan- 
gelization are great. May she arise to her task. Eld. 
Winklebleck craves the prayers of the saints. _ 

Farming and fruit growing here are practically all done 
by means of irrigation. The Don Pedro Dam. on the 
Tuolumne River, fifty miles east of Empire, dedicated 
June 25, 1923, is the highest dam in the world, so they say. 
Its height above river level is 283 feet; length at tO£ 
1040 feet; width at top, sixteen feet; width at base, 177 
feet; amount of storage capacity, 290,000 acre feet; length 
of lake, fourteen miles; width of lake, four and a half 
miles • average depth, 280 feet. The three turbines installed 
now generate 20,000 horsepower. The approximate cost 
of the dam, spillway and electric plant, was $4,444,000. 
This dam furnishes light, power and water for the large 
acreage of the Modesto and Turlock sections of the San 
Juan Valley. In soil products Stanislaus County ranks 
among the highest in the United States. 

In point of age the Modesto church is one of the young- 
est Bro O. E. Messamer is its pastor, and is doing a good 
work Their greatest immediate need is a church build- 
ing of their own. Plans are being discussed now, and a 
suitable plot of ground is sought. Some of the older 
members of the Western District of Pennsylvania will 
remember Joseph I. Cover, who, forty or more years ago, 
was an active elder in that District. He removed to Ohio, 
where, with his family, he united with the Old Order peo- 
ple, and was active for years. It was our pleasure to v,s,t 
his aged widow and some of her sons near Modesto. Three 
sons and a son-in-law are ministers of the same church. 

Buena Park, Calif., Jan. 2 Jerome E. Blough. 

Our best conjectures, as to the true spring of actions, 
are very uncertain; the actions themselves are all we 
know from history. That Caesar was murdered by twenty- 
four conspirators. I doubt not; but I very much doubt 
whether love of liberty was the sole cause.-Chesterfield. 



44 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



Notes From Our Correspondents 



ARIZONA 

Phoenix.— It was on Friday evening bclorc Christmas that the 
good ladies of our Aid Society planned a surprise for us. We 
were invited to Bro. Isaac Forney's to help to put up a treat 
for our Sunday-school children, Upon our arrival we soon dis- 
covered that something unusual was going on. The ladies and 
(heir families began to gather in, about twenty-five in all; others 
were kept away on account of the heavy rain and mud. We 
just forgot hard times, rain, mud, and everything that seemed un- 
pleasant, and with freedom, sociability, and hospitality, wc gave 
ourselves up to two hours of unfeigned happiness and joy. After 
refreshments. Sister Jones announced that our gilts were in an 
adjoining room. On going in we found a table loaded with good 
things such as potatoes, canned goods, apples, meat, jams, jellies, 
coffee, and other things. Wc appreciated not only the gifts, but the 
social hours helped us to appreciate each other more, and under- 
stand each other better. If this was an expression of the esteem 
in which we were held, it was more than we could expect or de- 
serve. God bless them all. We arc inspired to press onward in 
the work, and shall try to be worthy of their trust and support. 
We have so much to be thankful for just at this time, when wc 
think of the sickness we have had in our home for the last two 
years, and how we spent the two Christmas seasons prior to this. 
Our little girl, who has been under the hand of affliction, is en- 
joying the best of health, for which wc thank our loving Father 
in heaven. Wc have spent eight months in Phoenix with these 
good people, as their pastor. Our hearts go out to God for the 
welfare of his church and the people in this beautiful valley.— 
Leander Smith and wife, Phoenix, Ariz., Jan. 4. 

CALIFORNIA 

Glendora church met in council Dec. 22. The following officers 
were chosen for the year: Bro. G. H. Bashor, elder; Floyd ReifT, 
Sunday-school superintendent; Sister Delia Starner, Christian Work- 
ers' president; Sister Anna Gnagy, correspondent; Sister Effic 
Norcross, "Messenger" agent. Our Sunday-school money, $339.94, 
was divided equally between the General and District Mission Boards. 
The birthday money, $69.95, was divided equally between Sister 
Shick, of China, and Bro. Nishikawa, of Japan. Wc decided for 
the present to continue our Wednesday evening prayer meeting, 
and also to resume our Bible study class on Friday evening, con- 
ducted by our pastor, Bro. G. H. Bashor. Wc rejoice in the 
lively interest taken by a large class of Filipino young men in 
our Sunday morning consecration service, and in the Sunday- 
school and preaching service. A very enjoyable Christmas pro- 
gram was rendered by the Sunday-school Dec. 23 to a large and 
appreciative audience. Our series of revival meetings will begin 
Jan. 6, conducted by Bro. Flora, of San Diego, Calif.— Mrs. Retta 
Funk, Glendora, Calif., Jan. 2. 

"Long Beech church met in council Dec. 21, with Eld. J. S. Zim- 
merman presiding. A number of officers were elected for the 
coming year. The different auxiliaries of the church brought a 
report of progress. During the past year we received twenty- 
eight members by letter, four by baptism, lost two by death and 
five by letter. Our present membership is 142. The total amount 
contributed for church expenses, missions and incidentals was 
$7,124.54. There is a small balance in each fund. Dec. 23 our 
pastor gave a strong sermon on " Making Room for Jesus." In 
the evening a Christmas program was rendered by the Sunday- 
school to a full house. It was a splendid program and was much 
enjoyed by all. The church here has had a very good year and 
is preparing for more work for the new year. Our city has made 
such wonderful progress in growth and prosperity in the last few 
years that it is the duty of the church to put forth a greater ef- 
fort to go out after the unsaved. This is a great all-year tourist 
resort. Many members visit here and wc welcome them to our 
sanctuary to worship with us at 1600 East 3rd Street. At this 
time the churchhousc is being redecorated and repaired.— J. M. 
Shivcly, Long Beach, Calif., Dec. 31. 

Macdoel.— After an absence of nearly fifteen years the writer came 
here to visit a brother who is engaged in the mercantile business. 
I was surprised to find some of the old settlers that were here 
fifteen years ago and also to find they have a flourishing Sunday-, 
school with an average attendance of about thirty-five. Bro. Huffman 
is superintendent and he has been very energetic in keeping the 
work going. Bro. C. Ernest Davis, of Modesto, Calif., came here 
Nov. 26 last and held a two weeks' series of meetings. He manifests 
his usual vigor and power. The members, as well as non-members, 
are very much encouraged. Two new members were added by 
baptism. The meetings closed with a real love feast. Before 
Bro. Davis left the church met in council. Bro. Davis was chosen 
elder. He has manifested deep interest and has fond hopes for 
the future of the church here. The members are not only en- 
couraged in word but all will take hold and work for the future 
development of the cause here. The splendid work done by this 
good man cannot be appreciated save by being on the ground. 
He is very forceful and his words carry conviction to all who 
hear him. It is very well known that this valley— Butte Valley- 
was settled by a colony of the Brethren but it was soon proven 
that dry farming was not successful and many moved away. How- 
ever, it is encouraging to note that a huge irrigation system is 
now under construction. Any one desiring to change location will 
do well to look into the opportunities that are open and ready 
for the taking. We anticipate that in a. very few years there will 
be a much stronger body of the Brethren here than ever be- 
fore. There is a very large opportunity for good missionary work 
here.— Raula Snider. Macdocl, Calif.. Jan. 1. 

Oakland.— Our Sisters' Aid Society has been unusually busy lately. 
The sisters agreed to put the driveway in for the parsonage, 
and have been having all-day meetings every week to earn the 
money to pay for it. We have had splendid success making and 
selling home made candies. The Thursday before Christmas we 
made and sold over eighty pounds. At Thanksgiving time the 
Aid Societies of our District sent us supplies to the value of 
about $113, most of which our church workers prepared and 
distributed to needy ones for Thanksgiving. We sent out sixty-four 
full dinners, and about 100, including our own workers, attended 
the church services Thanksgiving morning and then en- 
joyed a dinner in the basement. The Thanksgiving offering 
amounted to $26,08, which was sent to our General Mission Board 
for the Emergency Fund. Our church officers for the coming 
year were chosen at our last council meeting, with Bro. W. M. 
Piatt, elder; Bro. J. Miller, trustee; Bro. R. Lake, church clerk. 
Dec. 2 we enjoyed a sermon from Bro. Harvey, of Fresno, in the 
morning, and one from Bro. Jerome Blough, of Johnstown, Pa., in 
the evening. Our Christmas program consisted of the Christmas 
story told in pictures and songs, followed by giving exercises by 
each department of the Sunday-school. The total offering amounted 
to about $38.90, the Cradle Roll, Beginners, and Primary Divisions 
giving their offering for the Children's Home-Finding Society of 
Northern California. The Junior Division gave theirs for the Amer- 
ican Mission to Lepers; the Intermediate and Young People's 
divisions, to our General Mission Board for our work in India, 
and the Adult Division for the needy poor of Oakland. Dec. 26 
the deputation team from La Verne College gave us a splendid 
program on Stewardship. On Jan. 13 we are to begin our School 
of Missions, all departments studying Japan. The Adults will 
V^Z y 'L Ja j' an °" the U P ward Trail"; the Intermediates and Juniors 
The Horlorable Japanese Fan"; and the Primaries the "Japan 
Primary Picture Stories."— Ivy Walter, OakWnd, Calif., Dec. 31. 

Raisin City.— Christmas Eve our Sunday-school gave a program, 
*?»rt of which wai an interesting scene, dramatizing the Story ol 



the First Christmas. Our offering for the Emergency Fund was 
$49.51. Recently Bro. L. L. Feightner, of Reedley, Bro. Harvey 
Snell and Bro. Sam Noll, of Lindsay, have supplied our pulpit. We 
decided at our last business meeting to have our home ministers 
preach (or us.— Mrs. Elizabeth F. Forney, Caruthers, Calif., Dec. 31. 

Reedley.— Two young sisters were baptized Dec. 9. Our morning 
service Dec. 23 was held in commemoration of the organization of 
our church in America. Bro. M. H. Miller brought the message. 
In the evening a Christmas program was given. An offering of 
$200 was taken for the Emergency Fund. The Thanksgiving offer- 
ing of $6372 was for the same fund. We begin the new year 
with Eld. M. N. Wine as elder in charge. Mos.t ol the other 
church officers were reelected. Our evangelistic meetings begin 
Jan. 15, with Eld. Edgar Rothrock, of La Verne, in charge— Mrs. 
Mamie Sink, Reedley, Calif., Dec. 30. 

Santa Ana church met in council Dec. 17, with Eld. S. G. Lchmer 
presiding. Church officers were elected as follows: Clerk, John M. 
Wine; correspondent and " Messenger " agent, the writer; Sunday- 
school superintendent, Ray Teeter; Christian Workers' president, Iva 
Carl. Three letters were read. Our building committee gave a 
very favorable report. Dec. 23 the Sunday-school gave a mixed 
program closing with a Christmas pageant and a generous treat 
for all. This service was enjoyed by a full house. Dec. 27 the 
church was again called in council with Bro. J. P. Dickey acting 
as moderator. We met to decide on selling the present church 
location, the proceeds to be used in the construction of the new 
church building. Four letters of membership were read. We 
anticipate a great future for the Santa Ana church with so many 
new members coming in and having such a favorable location. — 
Maude Frick, Tustin, Calif., Dec. 31, 

CANADA 

Irricana church met in council Nov. 27, with Bro. Wcddle, of 
Gleichen. presiding. Eld. David Hollinger, of Red Cliff, assisted. 
The following officers were elected: Bro. Weddle, elder; Bro. Geo. 
Long, foreman; Bro. Win. Culp, "Messenger" agent; Alberta Gump, 
church correspondent. The writer and Bro. Roy Brant were re- 
elected as superintendent and assistant of the Sunday-school. Dec. 
23 a Christmas program was rendered by the Sunday-school, ai 
the close of which an offering for missions -was lifted.— Mae E. 
Gump, Airdric, Alta., Can., Dec. 24. 

COLORADO 

Jaroso.— Bro. W. T. Luckett, of McPherson, Kans., came to this 
church Dec. 18, remaining until the 30th. He preached twelve 
sermons in all. In spite of some hindrances we had a good meet- 
ing. Twenty came forward. We expect to have baptismal services 
next Sunday. The writer is the only minister of our church within 
one hundred miles. Wc need help to care for the work. — W. D. 
Harris, Jaroso, Colo., Jan. 3. 

La, Junta.— Dec. 23 about thirty children and members living at 
this place met in the home of Brother and Sister Chas. Oxley and 
listened to a fine Christmas program by the children, followed by 
a sermon by the writer. Six families of members live in La Junta 
now and they have preaching every two weeks in their homes. 
They look forward to the time when they can have a public place 
for a Sunday-school and preaching.— Roy E. Miller, Rocky Ford, 
Colo., Jan. 2. 

Rocky Ford.— A worker for the Near East Relief was* with us a 
few Sundays ago and gave a splendid message. The work that is 
being done and the needs of the people were explained very clearly 
and interestingly. An offering of $300 was taken. Dec. 23 a very 
interesting program was given by the Sunday-school and an 
offering of $500 was taken. Christmas Eve a community pageant 
was given at the Fair Grounds, all the churches taking part. In 
our council meeting the following officers * were elected: Elder, 
Bro. Roy E. Miller; general superintendent, Bro. H. D. Wine; 
Christian Workers' president, Minnie Jones; correspondent, the 
writer. A report of the building committee shows the monthly 
payments on the building fund arc being met regularly. The 
question of a Vacation Bible School was discussed, and we decided 
that a school would be held similar to last year. If the com- 
munity takes up the plan we will cooperate with them. Sister 
D. O. Cottrcll was reelected president of the Aid Society. The 
present plan for the prayer meeting seems to be very success- 
ful, as a large crowd attends and much interest is shown. A 
different chapter of the Bible is taken up each week. Quite a few 
of our members are moving from other places into La Junta 
and working in the Santa Fc shops. As a result a mission has 
been opened, with preaching every two weeks. After the first 
of the year, there will be Sunday-school every Sunday. We are 
glad to have some of our own people so near us and hope that 
in the future a church can be organized and built. — Frances Santee, 
Rocky Ford, Colo., Jan. 2. 

ILLINOIS 

Allison Prairie (111.). — Our regular council was held Dec. 29, with 
our pastor, Bro. I. M. Miller, in ch«rge. The various church and 
Sunday-school officers were elected with Bro. A. E. Jellison, super- 
intendent; Sister Flossie Goff, president of the Christian Workers* 
Meeting; the writer, " Messenger " agent and correspondent. Dec. 
23 an excellent Christmas pageant, " When the Prince Cometh," 
was given at the church to a large and appreciative audience. 
A missionary offering was taken.— Flossie E. Goff, Vincennes, Ind., 
Jan. 1. 

Polo.— At our October business meeting Eld. John Hcckman was 
reelected elder for another year. He has served this church as 
leader for eighteen years and is still able and willing to give very 
efficient service. Bro. Mark Burner was elected Sunday-school 
superintendent. The church also granted Bro. Burner license to 
preach, and ordained Bro. Clarence Heckman into the full ministry. 
The latter is fitting himself for work on the foreign field. Nov. 
4 a deputation team from Mount Morris College Y. M. C. A. 
gave an interesting service in song. A short talk was given tell- 
ing some of the benefits of the " Y." Nov. 18 wc had an all-day. 
meeting at the church with dinner and lunch served in the basement. 
Bro. Bonsack, of Elgin, and Bro. Clarence Gnagy, of Mt. Morris, 
had charge of the services and gave us strong spiritual messages, 
helpful to us as individuals and as a church.— L. Alice Flory, Polo, III., 
Dec. 31. 

Polo.— After several weeks of preparation our evangelistic meet- 
ings began Nov. 25. Bro. L. H. Root, the evangelist, has a strong 
spiritual personality with fine delivery and consequently drew large 
crowds. He is strong for the principles of the Brethren Church and 
the splendid messages given have aroused both sinners arid saints. 
Our chorus added much to the interest and enthusiasm under the 
very efficient leadership of Bro. Clarence Heckman, who came from 
Mt. Morris each evening. He also led the congregational singing. 
The meetings closed Dec. 9, with fourteen applicants for baptism; 
one was reclaimed. Union services of all Protestant churches, but one, 
were held in our church on Thanksgiving Day. Each minister had - 
a part in the service. Bro, Root gave the message in his masterly 
way, helping us to realize the full significance of the day. The 
offering was given to our Religious Education work. Our Inter- 
mediate Sunday-school classes added to the joy of Hastings Street 
Mission by sending them a box. A most impressive Christmas pro- 
gram, " White Gifts to the King," representing self, service and 
substance, was given Dec. 23 to a full house. The gift bearers 
rcdedicated their lives to God's service and $115 was given by the 
twelve Sunday-school classes. The Intermediate girls sent a com- 
forter to Chicago. The Loyal Women's Class sent a comforter to 
Chicago and also surprised the pastor and family with a generous 
supply of good eats. The Sisters' Aid have set a definite task and 
are working hard with encouraging results.— L. Alice Flory, Polo, III., 
Jan. 1. 

West Branch.— Dec. 30 the church enjoyed an all-day meeting, 
with Sunday-school arid a very good sermon on " Time " by Eld, 
S, S. Plum. The members had brought well filled baskets and 
at the noon hour we gathered as one family and partook of the 
dinner. At 1:30 the business meeting was called. A larger number 



were present than for several years. Sunday-school officers were 
elected with Bro. W. H. Cordcll superintendent. Three letters were 
received. Two have been received by baptism since our last 
report. The church sent several barrels of provisions to Chicago 
at Thanksgiving time. Our Aid Society is growing in interest 
as well as in numbers. The Sunday-school cabinet met Jan. 3 
for the first time this year.— Mrs. Robt. S. Madcr. Polo, 111., Jan. 5. 

INDIANA 

Auburn.— We held our regular council Dec. 28. In the absence 
of Eld. Kreider, our - pastor, Eld. Samuel Burger assumed charge. 
We are glad that arrangements have been made for Eld. Burger 
and wife to remain with us for another year. Sunday-school officers 
were elected with Bro. Wm. Witt, superintendent. The writer is 
church correspondent and " Messenger " agent. Dec. 23 we rendered a 
Christmas program to quite a large audience.— Mrs. E. L. Kennedy, 
Garrett, Ind., Jan. 1. 

Beech Grove.— On Thanksgiving Day members and friends met 
at the church at 10 A. M. Bro. A, B. Roof, of Anderson, gave 
us an interesting talk. Wc enjoyed a bountiful dinner, and after- 
ward had a praise meeting. Our Thanksgiving offering was for 
home work. The church met in council Dec. 1, with Bro. J. Shep- 
herd as moderator. Officers were elected for the year with Bro. 
E. Fuqua, Sunday-school superintendent; Bro. A. B. Roof, elder. 
We enjoyed a Christmas program Dec. 23.— Mrs. Emma L. Foust, 
Pendleton, Ind., Jan. 3. 

Blue River church met in business session Dec. 29, with Eld. Ellis 
Wagoner presiding. Eld. S. J. Burger, of Auburn, Ind., was with us. 
Officers were elected as follows: Sunday-school superintendent, Mur- 
ray Shively; Christian Workers' President, Etta Bitting; clerk, 
Denver Ott; "Messenger" agent, Etta Bitting; the writer, corre- 
spondent. Eld. Wagoner was retained as pastor and elder for another 
year.— Laura Frick, Churubusco, Ind., Jan. 1. 

Camp Creek.— Nov. 28 a well-rendered Thanksgiving program was 
given by the Sunday-school pupils. We have enjoyed a three weeks' 
revival held by Bro. S. J. Burger and wife, of Auburn, Ind. Although 
inclement weather and bad roads hindered the progress of the 
meeting, we have all been spiritually benefited by their efforts. Dec. 
29 we met in council with Bro. I. S. Burns in charge. Three letters 
were granted. Bro. Burns was reelected elder for another year. 
Sunday-school and church officers were ejected with Sister Mildred 
Shively, superintendent; Bro. Glen Disher, " Messenger " agent; the 
writer, correspondent.— Bessie Burns, Etna Green, Ind., Jan. 1. 

Cedar Creek church met in council Dec. 19, with Bro. T. G. Weaver 
presiding- Sunday-school and church officers for the coming year 
were elected with Bro. Lawrence Smith, superintendent; Bro. Gerry 
Gump, church clerk; Sister Sadie Eber, "Messenger" agent; the 
undersigned, correspondent. Our pastor, Bro. Weaver, presented his 
resignation, which the church did not accept. We hope they will 
decide to continue the work here as the church has prospered 
wonderfully since Bro. Weaver and family have been with us. 
We had a Christmas program Sunday evening, Dec. 23.— Mrs. 
Lawrence Smith, Garrett, Ind., Dec. 31. 

English Prairie congregation met in business session Dec. 29, 
with Bro. Carl Yoder presiding. Two letters were received. Since 
our last council two letters have been granted. Bro. Carl Yoder 
was chosen elder for another year. Sunday-school officers were 
elected with Bro. Paul Yoder superintendent. A number of our 
members received diplomas for reading the Bible through last 
year. Officers for Christian Workers* Meeting were chosen for one 
year. The treasurer's report showed that about $300 was given 
for missions.— Mrs. Banks Light, Howe, Ind., Jan. 3. 

Fairview church met in the last quarterly members' meeting for 
the year. One letter was received and one granted. Sister Anna 
Wagoner was chosen to represent the church in a special District 
Conference in the near future as suggested by Bro. J. W. Lear. 
It was also decided to send for fifty copies of the new song book, 
"Hymns of Praise." Both church and Sunday-school officers 
were elected for the ensuing year, with Bro. Clarence Idle, church 
clerk and Sunday-school superintendent. At the close of .the 
meeting the church held an election for deacons. Brethren Thos. 
LaPrad, Jos. Fisher and Clarence Idle were chosen. On account 
of the first-named being absent, the installation service was post- 
poned until Jan. 6p-Mrs. Lulu E. Root, Lafayette, Ind., Dec. 31. 

Logansport.— Our revival meeting closed on the 17th inst., with 
a splendid interest. The fruit of the meeting was thirteen bap- 
tized and three restored. Brother Jarboc labored hard and by his 
splendid Gospel messages deepened the conviction that the Word 
of God is unchangeable. The church was greatly blessed through 
these meetings. — Mrs. L. T. Holsinger, Logansport, Ind., Dec. 31. 

Mississinewa. — Thanksgiving Day we began a series of meetings 
with Bro. C. A. Wright in charge. He gave us a Thanksgiving 
sermon in the forenoon. At noon a social time and a basket dinner 
were enjoyed in the basement of the church. In the afternoon an 
election was held for an elder to fill the vacancy caused by the 
death of Bro. J. W. Rarick. His son, W. Carl Rarick, was chosen 
to take his place. Sister Toney led the song services during the 
meeting, and her service was very much appreciated. Bro. Wright's 
sermons were, very clear and forceful and were listened to with 
marked attention. His illustrated talks for the children each Sun- 
day morning were rhuch enjoyed by young_ and old. The attendance 
throughout the meeting, was good considering the very rainy 
weather. Five were received by baptism. The meetings lasted 
three weeks and we feel that the church has been much encouraged 
and built up.— Mary E. Studebaker. Eaton, Ind., Dec. 31. 

Monti eel la church met in council Dec. 1, with our pastor, Eld. 
Chas. Oberlin, presiding. Officers for the coming year were elected 
for the church and Sunday-school: Eld. Chas. Oberlin, pastor for 
another year, by unanimous vote; Jo Dilling, clerk; Ralph Hibncr, 
"Messenger" agent; Ed Zimmerman, superintendent of the Sun- 
day-school. Wc had a splendid Christmas program Dec. 23. We 
now have a Teacher- training Class conducted by Bro. Chas. Oberlin 
and Ed Zimmerman.— Mary S. Toombs, Monticello, Ind., Jan. 5. 

Plevna church met in council Dec 13, with Eld. D. W. Hostetler 
presiding. Officers were chosen for the cbming year: Bro. F. P. 
Hostetler, elder; Sister Susie Hostetler, correspondent; the writer, 
clerk. Dec. 23 we reorganized our Sunday-school with Bro. Arthur 
Clingenpecl, superintendent— Tcna Smith, Kokomo, Ind., Jan. 4. 

Rock Run.— Having accepted the call to the pastorate of the 
Rock Run church of Northern Indiana, the writer began his labors 
here the middle of Septerqber. He, with his family, is living in 
the old home of Eld. Isaac L. Bcrkcy. This home is sacred to 
the people of this community because of the consecrated life and 
devoted service of Eld. Bcrkey, the influence of which is still 
felt. One of our deacons purchased the property that it might 
serve as a parsonage. This congregation is not so large as it 
was years ago. Many have been called home; others moved away. 
Yet we have many reasons to expect great things here. There 
arc more than a score of families of members with children grow- 
ing up to increase the ranks. What a great opportunity to save 
these lives wholly for the Master's service! This community has 
very few people that are not identified with the church and Sun- 
day-school. We have an enrollment of twenty-three tithers. A 
lecture course was arranged for by the adult Christian Workers* 
Society. Two numbers have already been given; the first, on 
Nov. 23, " The Country Church and Community " by Prof. Otho 
Winger; the next, on Dec. 21, a musical program by The Sacred 
Song Singers, the Manchester College quartette. Other numbers 
to follow are by Bro. H. K. Ober, Bro. W. B. Stover, and the 
boys' glee cluh from Bethany Bible School. Eld. J. Harvey Scbrock 
was again chosen presiding elder for the year beginning Sept. 1. 
At our December council Bro. Schrock and family were granted 
permission to place their membership with the church at Middle- 
bury, since they live nearer there and it is more convenient for 
them to attend services there. We regretted much to .lose them. 
Our Sunday-school began the fiscal year Oct. 1. Bro. Clarence 
R. Cripe is superintendent. Our average for the last quarter's 
attendance was ninety, Dec, 6 we met in regular council, with 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



45 



v\ i Schrock presiding. The church officers were elected for the 
mind year: Clerk, Clarence R. Cripc; "Messenger" agent, Otis 

Haxtsougb,; the writer, correspondent and publicity agent.— Ervin 

Weaver, Goshen, Ind., Jan. 3, 
Ros»ville.— Union Thanksgiving' services were held at the Methodist 

church on the evening -* 

baugh, delivered th. 



of No 
sermon. 



It pastor, Bro. J. G- Stine- 
iday- school was reorganized 
tn Bro. Harry Gochcnour superintendent. Dec. 9 the 
Missionary Committee gave a program including an illustrated lecture 
oll our mission field in India. On Christmas Eve we enjoyed a 
c.ilendid program by the Sunday-school. Dec. 29 our church met 
in council with Eld. J. G. Stinebaugh presiding. The following 
fficers were elected: Bro. Amos Cripc, clerk; the writer, church 
correspondent. We also considered the building of a new church- 
house in the city of Frankfort. Our pastor has been conducting 
monthly members' meetings, giving us instruction in 
trine. This is proving to be intcrcstin 
Floyd R. Wagoner, Rossville, Ind., Jan. 4. 

Santa Fe church met in council Dec. 20. Three brethren were 
elected to the deacon's office: Fred Hartleroad, Herman Landrum 
and Omer Wolf. They were duly installed with their wives. Breth- 
ren O C. Rife and D. P. Klepingcr were present. Our Sunday-school 
officers were elected for the year, with Bro. Abner Bonn, super- 
intendent We feel that our Sunday-school is progressing both 
in numbers and interest— Mrs. Dossie Webb Fewcll, Loree, Iud., 



church doc- 
valuable, 



Jan. S. 

Tippecanoe— At least two years have passed since we have reported 
to the " Messenger," but we arc still working, enjoying God's 
richest blessings. Our congregation has now two houses of wor- 
ship. The new church is in the little village of North Webster, 
one and a half miles from Tippecanoe. There is Sunday-school every 
Sunday morning at each church and preaching every other Sunday. At 
the village church there is a young people's meeting, or perhaps 
a missionary meeting every Sunday evening. Bro. John Ebberly 
has charge of both places. He is attending school at North Man- 
chester coming to us on Sunday and returning on Monday of 
each week. He held a two weeks' meeting at Tippecanoe begin- 
ning Nov. 18. Three made the good choice. One has been added 
since making a total for the year of seven. Dec. 8 the church 
met in council with Eld. Wm. Hess presiding. Officers for the 
year were elected. Bro. Hess was reelected elder, making his 
third year. With the help of his good wife he has done some very 
good work. Bro. Virgil Mock was chosen clerk; the writer, " Mes- 
senger " agent and correspondent. Dec. 23 both churches reor- 
ganized the Sunday-schools; Bro. A. M. Likens, superintendent of 
the village school; Tippecanoe, the writer. With the help of the 
Sisters' Aid and others we painted the Tippecanoe church last 
year. Despite the prevalent hard times, the church has provided 
new song books which, with our good leader, Sister Florence Shock, 
add much to our congregational singing. The Sisters' Aid at the 
village church is doing good work.— Ada Miller Mock, Syracuse, Ind., 
Jan. 2. 

Turkey Creek church just closed a very successful three weeks 
revival with Bro. Edw. Stump, of Walkerton, Ind., evangelist. Five 
were added to the fold. We had very strong and inspiring spiritual 
sermons which were a great help to us. Our attendance was very 
pood considering the rainy weather. Sister Naomi Swihart, of 
Goshen, Ind., conducted the singing which added much interest 
to the meeting.— Henry L. Pletcher, Nappanee, Ind., Dec. 31. 

Union— We held our love feast Oct. 27. A number of members 
and ministers from adjoining churches were present which was 
an inspiration to us. Bro. J. O. Kesler remained over and brought 
the morning message. Nov. 18 Bro. Howard Dickey, ol North 
Liberty, preached for us. Dec. 8 we met in council with Bro. J. 
F Appleman as moderator. One letter was granted and one re- 
ceived. Church and Sunday- school officers were elected for the 
year: Elder, Bro. J. F. Appleman; Sunday-school superintendent, 
Bro. Ray Welborne; "Messenger" agent, Mrs. Lizzie Kyser; cor- 
respondent, Mrs. Alma Welborne. Dec. 23 the Sunday-school gave 
a program. Dec. 30 Bro. Harry Swank, of Froid, Mont., and his 
sister, Martha, of Bethany Bible School, formerly of Sebring, Fla., 
gave a talk on mission work, which was listened to very attentively.— 
Mrs. Bertha Brown, Donaldson, Ind., Dec. 31. 

Wawaka.— Dec. 10 officers were elected for the year as follows: 
Harry Frick, superintendent; Jesse Swank, clerk; the undersigned, 
■Messenger" agent and correspondent Bro. B. E. Hoover, our 



Thanksgiving evening appropriate services were held and an offer- 
ing of $64 was given for the missionary cause. Dec. 2 the Golden 
Rule principle was observed and an offering of $46 was given 
to the Near East work. Rev. Lehman, a Mennonite minister of 
York, Pa., gave us a short address in the evening; also baptism 
was administered to one applicant. Our. quarterly business meet- 
ing was held Dec. 14. Eld. H. L. Royer is retained as elder for 
two years. Bro. E. F. Emmcrt is superintendent of the Sunday- 
school; Sister Clara Walker, president of the Christian Workers. 
Last Sunday, the second meeting o( the joint Christian Workers' 
Societies of the District met with us. Although a very severe storm 
was beginning about a hundred visitors were with us. The dis- 
cussions in the afternoon, the luncheon in the evening and the 
program following were enjoyed by all present. Our church and 
Sunday-school activities arc growing and with the continued united 
efforts the work at "Community Center" promises well for 1923 — 
Mrs. Ida E. Bcaslcy, Adcl, Iowa, Jan. 4. 

KANSAS 

held their first love feast at the home of 
Dec. 28. They bad planned to hold it 
account of the death of Bro. Moses Dear- 
Eld, M. W. Eikenberry, of Dallas Center, 
also had with us Bro. Irving Haughtelin, Brother 
Chas. Reynolds, of Panora, and Bro. Ray Dear dor ff, of 
is. A business meeting was held Dec, 14, with Eld. Eikcn- 
nodcrator. Bro. Chas. Knight was elected deacon and 
wife were duly installed by Brethren I. W. Brubake 
ghtelin. The Sunday-school scholars ha, 



Bagley.— The membet 
Sister Helen Kruegcr 
Christmas night but o 
dorff it was postponed 
officiated. 
.nd Sister 



Waldo, Ka 
berry 



and hi 

Irving Ha 






rendered some 
very interesting programs— a temperance and missionary program in 
November, and also a Christmas program. At the close of each 
program liberal offerings were' lifted. This closes our first six 
months of work as a new congregation.— Mrs. Leoto Romctsch, Bagley, 
Iowa, Jan. 1. 

Buckeye church met in council Dec. 29. Bro, C. A. Shank pre- 
sided with Brethren U. S. Brillhart and S. R. Mcrkcy assisting. 
Bro. Harold G. Correll was elected to the ministry but was not 
installed. Brethren J. A. Sword and Earl Brillhart were elected 
deacons. On account of sickness Bro. Sword was not present. 
Brother and Sister Brillhart were installed into office. We are 
expecting Bro. Ray Wagoner, of McPherson College, to be here 
Jan. 13 to give an illustrated lecture.— Blanche Brillhart,! Abilene, 
Kans., Jan. 3. 

Central Avenue.— We held an all-day meeting and basket dinner at 
our church on Thanksgiving, with the Armourdalc church as our 
dinner was fine and the attendance good, consider - 
storm which lasted all day. Dec. 23 the Junior and 
Primary Departments of our Sunday-school rendered an impres- 
sive program, which was enjoyed by all. Two of our Sunday- 
school scholars gave their hearts -to Jesus as their Christmas 
gift. As our White Gift offering, a building fund was started, 
which we expect to sec grow until we are able to build a much- 
needed church, fully equipped to do more and better work for our 
Master. On Dec. 30, at the morning service, the newly-elected 
officers for the various departments of the church, were installed. 
In the evening, our chorus gave a musical program, consisting 
of a cantata, ducts, solos and piano music. Our Aid Society has 
done well the past year. This year we expect to enlarge and do 
better.— Laura Leonard, Kansas City, Kans., Jan. 7. 

East Wichita church met in council Dec. 26. Church officers 
for the coming year were elected with Bro. Henry Crist, elder. 
Dec. 25 we held our love feast with about seventy-five present. 
Nov. 11 our aged Bro. Wm. John! 
day sermon. Although in his whe 
with the same power and spirit : 
closed our series of meetings, 
was the evangelist Sistei 
ng, and Sister Hch 



scnger" agent; Sister Goldie Early, missionary secretary; the writer, 
correspondent; Bro. Earl Wolf was reelected church clerk for three 
years. Dec. 23 the children and young people gave a Christmas 
program which was well attended. Our offering for general mission 
work was $33. An offering of fruit and vegetables was given to the 
poor also. Gifts from the Primary Department oi the Sun hold 
Sunday-school were sent here to be distributed to the poor— Mrs. 
Blanche Arnctt, Battle Creek, Mich., Jan. 2. 

Zton church met in council Dec. 29, with Bro. W. H. Good pre- 
siding. Two letters were granted. Church and Sunday-school of- 
ficers were elected, with Bro. W. H. Good, elder; Bro. John Krantz, 
clerk; the writer, correspondent and president of the Christian Work- 
ers' Meeting; Bro. M. L. Moats, superintendent— John Meiser, 
Prescott, Mich., Jan. 2. 

MINNESOTA 
Jewett church met in council Dec. 30, with Eld. Jas. F. Swallow 
in charge. Five letters were granted and six received. The fol- 
lowing officers were elected for the year: Elder, Jas. F. Swallow; 
assistant, Carl Swallow; clerk, Sister Carl Swallow; "Messenger" 
agent. Sister C. W. Davis; correspondent, the writer; Sunday- 
school superintendent, Bro. C. W. Davia. Our Sunday-school and 
district school gave a joint program Dec. 21, which was well 
attended.— Estella Thotnan, Matmo, Minn., Jan. 2. 

Root River church met in business session Dec. 28. Bro. G. R. 
Monti will be retained as elder and pastor lor another year. With 
the exception of one change all the old church officers were re- 
elected for the coming year. Nov. 9 the Ladies' Aid held their 
annual sale, the proceeds of which amounted to about $80. Nov. 
10 we held our love feast. Our total Thanksgiving offering was 
$303, and was sent to the General Mission Board. Since our last 
report thirteen have been added to the church, eleven by baptism 
and two by letter, making a total ol eighteen accessions for the 
year. One young sister has recently been removed by death. Our 
pastor is giving us some real spiritual messages.— Jessie P. Tam- 
mel, Preston, Minn., Dec. 31. 

MONTANA 

Milk River Volley church met in council Dec. IS, with Eld. J. 
A. Brumbaugh presiding. Officers for church and Sunday-school 
were elected as follows: Bro. J. A. Brumbaugh, elder; Sister Nola 
Brumbaugh, clerk; Jacob Wood, trustee; the writer, "Messenger" 
agent and correspondent; J. J. Peters, Sunday-school superintend- 
ent. The Sunday-school lifted an offering of $3.09 for the Emergency 
Fund. Thanksgiving evening neighbors and friends gathered at 
the home of Eld. J. A. Brumbaugh with well filled baskets. The 
evening was spent in singing and speaking by the children, fol- 
lowed by a praise service.— Saloma Peters, Kremlin, Mont, Due. 29. 

NEBRASKA 

Bethel Sunday-school gave a Christmas program which was well 
rendered to a large, appreciative audience. One of the interest- 
ing features was a little play, given by the intermediate boys, "A 
Drop in the Temperature," telling of a church which became very 
cold because of the presence of one man who did not believe in 
Christmas. There was also special music. " Silent Night " was 
dramatized by three little girls. Our White Gift offering was over 
$108, to which sonic has been added sincc.-Mrs. A, D. Flory, Carle- 
ton, Ncbr., Jan. 7. N£W y QRK 



mal birth- 
iair, he preached the Word 
n previous years. Nov. 18 
Z. Smith, of Sidney. Ohio, 
Smith conducted the devotionals each 
i led the singing. All three labored faith- 



Lake. Ridge church met ii 
presiding. Officers for the coming 
Frank Keim and Charles Weiblcy 
intendents. On Dec. 24 a Christ) 
enjoyed by those present. 



I Dec. 8, with Eld. H. D. Jones 
r were chosen. Brethren 
our Sunday-school super- 
program was given and 
treat was given the Sunday- 



:hool scholars. We expect Sister Kathryn Zicgler, of India, who 
is home on furlough now, to be with us on the fifteenth and tell 
us of her work in the foreign field— Zilpha Campbell, King Ferry, 
N. Y., Jan. 5. 



feel that much 



i been done. Nin 



applic 



will be 



enjoyed a Christ- 
fessed Christ 



:ek»' revival. 
Sister Shull 
also led the 
confessions. — 



will 



reghly, 



, another year. Dec. 23 
mas program given mostly by the children, 
and was added to the church by baptism Dec. 29.— Jacob A. Eberly 
Ligonier, Ind., Jan. 7. 

Yellow River.— Wc have just closed our three l 
Bro. Russell Shull preached the Word with power, 
gave instructive object lessons to the children and 
singing which was indeed a help. There were three 
Alma E. Hanawalt, Plymouth, Ind., Jan. 2. 

IOWA 

Kingaley church met in council Dec. 9. Walter L. Karl 
--* -i Sunday-school superintendent lor the coming year. Bro. Ezra 
who has ably filled the office of church treasurer for the 
■nty years, was relieved and will be succeeded by Walter 
Karlson. Dec. 23 a fine Christmas program was rendered, mostly 
by the younger Sunday-school classes. The young peoples class 
sang several songs and after services gathered at the homes of 
some who are unable to attend church and sang for them.— Mrs. 
Dewey W. Forbes, Kingslcy, Iowa, Jan. 7. 

Mt Etna— We held our quarterly council Dec. 28 with Bro. Harry 
Rogers, the home pastor, presiding. We elected church officers for 
the year and Sunday-school officers for three months. Very few 
changes were made as our Sunday-school has been growing nicely 
and we felt best to continue with about the same officers. During 
the past year we put a basement under our church and dedicated it 
clear of debt Aug. 19. We held an all-day service Bro. H. F. Cas- 
kcy preached the dedicatory sermon and Bro. John D. Brower, ol 
South English, preached for"~us in the evening. Dec. 24 we gave a 
pageant, " The First Christmas." A good crowd was pre"»t. Our 
young people did fine in representing the different parts We began 

our revival Aug. 25 and continued for 

Thompson, of Ottumwa, Iowa, in charge 

messages and a fine spirit was manifes.- 

tions to the church. We have engaged Bro. James Swalk.„, ~. 

Malmo, Minn., to hold a meeting next September.— Dora Rogers, 

Mt. Etna, Iowa, Dec. 31. 

Muscatine church met in council Dec. 22. with Eld. U. J. Fike 
presiding. Officers were elected for the year: Sunday-school super- 
intendent Sister Mary Pacely; Christian Workers' president, Sister 
Irene Bowman; "Messenger" agent and correspondent. Sister Emily 
Weis Bro Fike brought a splendid morning message Dec. 23 on 
the "Incarnation of Jesus." In the evening a Christmas program 
was given to a filled house. The closing number of the program 
was "Telling the Christmas Story" in which a teacher told the 
Christmas story to several primary children. As they fell asleep 
by the fireplace, the fireplace was removed to reveal 
have been their dreams— a tableaux of two little girl: 
ing angels bending over the manger. The songs, 
Old, Old Story," and "Holy Night" were sung by a quartette 
during the progress of the story. At the close of the program 
an offering was taken for the General Mission Board.-D. M. Brower, 
Muscatine, Iowa, Dec. 31. 
Ottumwa church met in a business session Dec. 21. Bro. Wm. 
s moderator. A motion was passed to have 
the Home and see how much could be secured 
toward the budget of this church. The following Sunday-school 
and church officers were elected: Sunday-school superintendent. David 
Link; president of Aid Society, Martha Wolf; president of ^ Chris- 
tian Workers' Band, Gladys Paxton. -Lawrence Clark, Ottumwa, 



Wm. 

He brought us many good 
ed. There were three add!- 



fully, and 

were baptized, two await the rite and tour were KCMimeo. vve 
have received eleven letters recently. Dec. 27 and 28 Bro. Ira 
Arnold, retuYncd missionary from India, assisted by his wife and 
Mrs Wells another India missionary of the Presbyterian church, 
gave illustrated lectures which were greatly enjoyed. An offering 
of $15 was taken for the work.-Mrs. Carl Ramsey, Wichita, Kans,, 
Jan. 2. 

Kansas City (Calvary).— At our annual business meeting Dec. 14, 
we voted to change our church name from Armourdalc Mission 
to Calvary Church of the Brethren, and hereafter we shall be known 
by that name. At the same meeting our church was more ully 
organized and the following officers were elected for the year: Clerk, 
OthoCouts; Board of Trustees, E. W. Burchfield, Riley Steele, 
Walter Whitmer; " Messenger" correspondent and agent, 
Gravatte- Sunday-school superintendent, Cordia Bi 
Workers' president, Mable Gravatte. On Christmas tv« «». «. - — 
was crowded. A pageant, "Jesus the Hope of the World," was 
a feature of special interest. The success of the program was 
due to the fact that both old and young were anxious to con- 
tribute their part. A Gospel Team of men and another of women 
has been organized; both are doing effect.ve^work, especially among 
the sick and shut-ins. Bro. Jos. Barney .s captain of the, joint 
team. Our midweek prayer meeting is one of our most valuable 
services with an average attendance of about forty. The Sunday- 
school has an attendance of about 135. We have five organ."-! 
classes. Recently wc have been favored with 
Vancil, of Gardner, Kans., A. D. Crist, of Paoh 
Ward, of Pomona, Kans. One has been baptized 
report Gifts from surrounding churches gave Christmas cheer 
to a number of families here.-Anna Miller, Kansas City. Kans., 
Jan. S. 

McPherson.-Our Christmas program was rendered Dec. 19, to 
a crowded house. It consisted of the annual candle light service, 
which was made very impressive by the college girli 
dressed in white and carried candles. They sang 
followed by several numbers by the Sunday-school, 
climax to the program an offering of $25 was taken, besides the 
white gilt offerings which were later distributed to needy families. 
A successful watch night party was carried out on New Years 
Eve at the college chapel, with about 150 attend.ng. A program 
consisting of stcreopticon views, a pageant and i 
with various games, was followed by light refreshm. 
the watch -service was held. The congregation a 
looking forward to the annual Bible Institute wh, 
Jan. 20-27. We are prom 
ligious training that hav< 
report one 



Ken ma re church met in 
ganization, G. I. Michael, 

for the coming year. Eff 
agent; and the writer, chu 

superintendent 



NORTH DAKOTA 

quarterly 



Dec. 29 for reor- 
prcaided and was reelected 
Michael was reelected " Messenger " 
i clerk and correspondent Sister Boe 
if Sunday-school. Some over a year 
tried the plan of taking the weekly offering each Sunday 
morning and were so well pleased with results that wc adopted it 
for an indefinite time. This being our year for holding the joint 
Sunday-school convention, G. I. Michael, Jorgen Boe, and Jacob 
Schwartz were elected as a committee to prepare a program and 
make arrangements for the convention and a scries of jneetinga 
to be held the first part of June. Since our last report Bro. Jorgen 
Boe has been ordained to the eldcrship.- 
Bowbells, N. Dak., Jat 



Lawrence Larsen, 



hficld; Christian 



addresses by Joel 
Kans., and J. M. 
last 



OHIO 

Black Swamp.— Sister Mary L. Cook wai 
and gave a splendid address on mission! 
of nearly $10 was taken for the Emergent 
ing the Sunday-school gave an entertain 
recitations and readings and a short addre 
we reorganized our Christian Workers' 



with us Sunday, Dec. 23,. 
after which an offering 
Fund. The same even- 
Ent, consisting of songs, 
: by Sister Cook. Dec. 30 
iocietv by electing Bro. 



who were 
'Holy Night," 
fitting 



concert, 
Iter which 
Ltdcnts arc 
U be held 
of the strongest courses in rc- 
ever been given here. Since our last 
added to the church by baptism.— Mrs. 



Ozawkie.- 

met with u 
advanced ti 



in special council, : 



what may 
represent- 
"Tell Me " 



Thompson acted 



J. P. Haugh, McPherson, Kans., J: 

,. Hoover and L. A. Whitaker 
hich time Guy H. Brammell was 
Bro. Jesse Johnson and P. Roy 
_ elected" to" "the office of deacon. Thanksgiving Day 
we™t" for" worship and praise-an ^j 1 ^ 7^™".'° Bering 
practically everyone testifie d to the goodness oMSod An offering 

Sur ^^^£^« ?i "j^Vhn-on Christian Work- 
2? president; P. Roy Brammell, Sunday -sohool superintendent. 

6 Am L eli H Pe Root TwX r n Dak the camft r o u7 to^Suct ^ 
LV„f " He preached the Word with spiritual power d^cr 
- well .prepared bourses, .sides ^--^J £ ™£ 
hurch was strengthened. Dec. . 



low 



Panther Creek.- 
evening, Nov. 25. 



V Thanksgiving program was 
Short talks and readings were given, 



ed Sunday 
Also on 



helpful Bible Ii 

in newness of life, and 

forty-five members partook of the communion, 

MICHIGAN 



Root offici. 
last Sunday by a goodly 



1 Mes - 



Lloyd Dukes president We planned to do more aggressi 
in the future— Mrs. Asenath Baker, Lcmoyne, Ohio, Jan. 1. 

Lima church met in council Dec. 19, with Eld. G. A. Snider pre- 
siding. Officers for the year were elected: Bro. Wm. E. Ovcrholser, 
elder; Effie Werking, clerk; Gale Early, superintendent; Samuel 
Weaver, "Messenger" agent; Roger Kcttimon, president of the 
Christian Workers' Society. Nov. 20 Bro. Wm. Ovcrholser and 
family, of Winona Lake, Ind., came to this place to take charge 
of the work. Under his leadership every department of the church 
has taken on new life. The attendance is increasing and a deeded 
change is manifested in the missionary spirit. Since our last report, 
eight have been added to the church by letter and two by the right 
hand of fellowship. On Thanksgiving morning we held a sunrise meet- 
ing which was well attended. An offering of over $16 was lifted. 
Dec 23 the Sunday-school gave a Christmas program which was 
well rendered to a full house. An offering of $38 was lifted, both to 
be sent to the General Mission Board. Brother and Sister Ovcr- 
holser were elected delegates to the District Meeting.— Mrs. Hora U. 
Byerly, Lima, Ohio, Jan. 1. 

M.rbl. Fur-co .hurch mcl to council Dec. 14. Bro. JO. Scar 
gave u, a very interesting talk. Besides electing new officers iOr 
fhe year, we chose two deacons: M. Hedrick and Carl Gown. The 
small children ol the Sunday-school gave a short Chn.tma. pro- 
gram, alter which Bro. Wright gave a talk on The Other Wise 
Man" The program and talk were enjoyed by an appreciative 
audience.— Mrs. Etta Ramsey, Peebles, Ohio, Jan. 5. 

Pie— nt HiU.-Our pastor. Bro. J. A. Robinson, delivered a 
.pSSd Christmas sermon Dec. 23. In th. evening the chddren 
and young people entertained with 
attended. A i 
t'.nnle's Conference 

ChrLtn.i, vacation. Everyone enjoyed the -mecttng very much. 
Sec M Bro. Perry Rohrer. ol North -Manchester preached a very 
good .ermon.-Edna Laughman, Pleasant Hill, Ohio, Jan. 3. 

u u _, ; n council Dec 29. with Eld. S. I. Driver 
RoM church u -«-/° s U X S ch O 0.' officers for the ensuing 

CleCted 's BCO I %£J^A «££ VlA 

Frances Detrick, with Bro. Abram Coil, alternate. 
The" WceV of Thanksgiving Bro. J. L- Guthrie, 
conducted a meeting which resulted m two 
Frances Detrick, Spencerville, Ohio, Jan. 1. 

OKLAHOMA 

Vc are still struggling along, trying 
burning. We are handicapped ho, 
nail and scattered, also becausi 
W. B. Gish. ol Thomas. Okta. 
(Continued on Page 48) 



program 



well 



presid 
year ' 
day-school; 
Meeting i 



Leedy-- 



membership i 
terial aid. B 



of our young people attended the Young 
: "for Southern Ohio held at West Milton durmg the 



of Lafayette, Ohio, 
iccepting Christ. — 



o keep the fire on 

fever because our 

< of lack of minia- 

did some preach- 



46 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



Mcpherson college bible institute 

Program of the Bible Institute to be held at McPherson 
College Jan. 20-27: 

8 to 9 A. M., Monday to Saturday, Pauline Epistles. — 
Deeter. 

9 to 10 A. M., Monday, Building the Community Out of 
the Church ; Tuesday, An Effective Policy for the Rural 
Church; Wednesday, Essentials of a Vital Pulpit' Pro- 
gram ; Thursday, The Rural Pastor; Friday, Sermon Con- 
struction; Saturday, Church Clinic. — Blough. 

10:30 to 11:30 A. M., Monday to Saturday, Biblical in- 
terpretation. — Lear. 

11:30 to 12:30, Monday, Reading Material for Children. 
—Walters. Tuesday, Place of Christian Culture; Wednes- 
day, Elements and Objectives of Christian Culture ; Thurs- 
day, Agencies of Christian Culture. — Richards. Friday 
and Saturday, Lectures by Kurtz. 

1:30 to 2:30 P. M., Monday, Gronewall. Tuesday, the 
Salem Witchcraft.— Ebel. Wednesday, The Brethren in 
Kansas; Thursday, Crises in Church History. — Craik. Fri- 
day, Church Finances. — Yoder. Saturday, God's Method 
of Operating this World. — Harnly. 

2 : 30 to 3 : 30, Monday, The Power of Self Esteem ; Tues- 
day, Supremacy of the Human Will; Wednesday, the Need 
of Religion. — Lear. Thursday, Clothing; Friday, Cooking 
Demonstration; Saturday, Food and Health. — Walters. 

3:30 to 4:30 P. M., Monday, Significance of Play; Tues- 
day, History of Physical Education; Wednesday, The Play 
Director; Thursday, Organization of Community Recrea- 
tion; Friday, A Year's Suggested Program; Saturday, 
Practical Demonstration. — Mishler. 

4:30 to 5:30 P. M., Monday, Finishing; Tuesday, Prac- 
tical Manual Training, Boone. Wednesday, Ornamental 
Gardening; Thursday, Leaks in the Farm Business. — 
Mohler. 

Evening Sessions. Monday, Musical. Tuesday, Disci- 
pline. — Lear. Wednesday, Lecture. — Kurtz. Thursday, A 
Visit to the Stars (Illustrated). — Morris. Friday, Educa- 
tional Meeting. Saturday, Animals of the Ice Age. — Nin- 
inger. 

If entertainment is desired write the undersigned. 

McPherson, Kans. J. W. Deeter. 



SISTERS' AID SOCIETIES 



MINISTERIAL AND SUNDAY-SCHOOL WORKERS' 
CONFERENCE OF SOUTHEASTERN KANSAS 

This meeting was held at Chanute Dec. 27, and was the 
first meeting of its kind held in the District. Seven of the 
eleven churches of the District were represented. 

Bro. J. W. Lear, Chairman of the Council of Promotion, 
was with us ; his presence and help added greatly to the 
meeting. Bro. Lear's visit was to help and inspire the 
workers to greater activity. This being his motive the pro- 
gram which was planned for the day was laid aside and the 
day given to him. 

In the forenoon he gave a splendid address on "The 
Church," our relation to it, and what it should mean to us. 
In the afternoon he conducted a conference, asking and 
answering questions pertaining to the work of the Dis- 
trict, and the advancement of the Kingdom. We feel that 
Bro. Lear's visit to us will accomplish much good. I 
trust it will open our eyes to the opportunities that lie 
within our reach. 

Our next meeting will be held at Fredonia. 

Chanute, Kans. Emma S. Miller, Sec'y- 



MINISTERIAL MEETING OF SOUTHERN ILLINOIS 

A most helpful and inspirational meeting of the pastors 
and ministers of Southern Illinois was had in the Spring- 
field church Dec. 28. It was the first of the kind to be 
held in the District, and was highly appreciated by all 
present. It was unanimously decided to effect a per- 
manent organization, and a constitution was adopted. The 
constitution calls for three meetings a year — a special fea- 
ture of each annual meeting being a meeting of the min- 
isters' and pastors' wives participating. 

In the forenoon session Bro. Noah Miller, in his dis- 
cussion of the subject, "The Pastor's Relation to the 
Home Ministry," correctly sensed a real need of the min- 
isterial situation in a strong plea for full, complete co- 
operation. Following Bro. Miller, Sister J. C. Shull pre- 
sented a paper on "The Minister's Wife" that made a 
deep impression on all and was much commented upon. 
Strong pressure was expressed to have it sent to the 
"Messenger" for publication. We considered it the finest 
presentation of the subject we had ever heard. 

A very enjoyable basket dinner and fellowship meal 
was enjoyed in the basement at the noon hour. 

Two excellent papers were presented after dinner: "The 
Pastor as a Leader of Community Life " by Bro. L D. 
Heckman, and " Pre-Easter Evangelism" by Bro. B. C. 
Whitmore. Both papers set forth in a most splendid way 
the new goals and high ideals for the present day pastor's 
life. Perhaps the best evidence of the success of the meet- 
ings was the spirited discussion that followed each paper, 
in the most kindly and Christian spirit. It is hoped that 
a full attendance of all ministers and elders of the Dis- 
trict may be had at the next meeting. Olin F. Shaw. 

Girard, 111. 



ANTIOCH, VA.— Enrollment, 25; number of meetings, 12; average 
attendance, 10. We made 95 prayer-coverings, 10 bonnets, 8 shirts, 
1 quilt and 3 comforts. We gave away clothing, quilts, etc., valued 
at $32; balance from last year, £40.89; received from sales, donations, 
etc., $146.77; total, $187.66; spent for material and extracts, $68.55. 
We gave to Bethany Hospital, $25; Greene County School, $15; 
Forward Movement, $10; O. F. Helm, $2; Mrs. Oberholtzcr, China, 
$10; General Mission Board, $10; S. H. Flora and family, $5; church 
at Spray, N. C, $5; General Secretary, $1; balance, $34.52. Officers: 
Sister Nora Flora, President; Sister Bessie Laprade, Vice-President; 
Secretary -Treasurer, the writer.— Mrs. A. O. Brubaker, Callaway, Va., 
Jan. 2. 

EAST DAYTON, OHIO.— Average attendance, 6; enrollment, 8; 
average collection, $4.05. We held 13 all-day meetings. Our work 
consisted of quilting, knotting comforts, making bonnets, piecing 
quilts, etc. We donated clothing to the poor and made two baby 
outfits for China. We paid $13 for church furniture; $50 to 
Bethany Hospital; $30 to General Mission Board; $25 to the work 
in Africa; $5 to the Virginia work; $3 for flowers. — Lida Baldwin, 
Sec, Dayton, Ohio, Dec. 31. 

HEIDELBERG, PA.— Number of meetings held, 19; average at- 
tendance, 7. We have 8 active and 10 associate members. A good 
part of our time was spent in quilting. We sold calendars, post 
cards and extracts. Paid out for Emergency Fund, $25; to Greene 
County School, $10; donated material to Ncffsville Orphanage; $5 
for home missions; carried over, $7.80; receipts, $73.87; expenditures, 
$66.71; balance, $7.16. Officers: Sister Alice King, President; Sister 
Mary Kurtz, Superintendent; Sister Emma Kurtz, Treasurer; the 
writer. Secretary.— Amanda Brubaker, Schacfferstown, Pa,, Dec. 31. 

MANCHESTER, IND.-We held 31 half-day meetings with an 
average attendance of 21. We held 2 markets, 2 bazaars, 1 mission- 
ary program, served meals, etc. We made 24 quilts, 13 com- 
forters, 74 sheets, 178 pillow cases, 3 applique spreads; sewed for 
individuals, also for the needy. Garments and comforters were 
given to local charity and boxes of clothing and other articles sent 
to the Marion Mission and Mexico Home. Receipts: Carried for- 
ward, $179.11; interest, $60; articles sold, $20.10; solicitors, $29.05; 
dues, $61; birthday offerings, $20.48; work, $41.65; quilts, $113.89; 
spreads, $24; markets, bazaars, meals, etc., $277.30; total, $856.15." 
Expenditures: Greene County School, $77; India and China Share 
Plan, $100 each; church repair, $100; Marion Mission, $25; Peru 
parsonage, $10; No-Tobacco League, $10; local charity, $63.07; Battle 
Creek Mission, $12.85; other expenses, $147.24; total, $645.16; cash 
on hand, $210.99. Officers: President, Sister John E. Shively; Vice- 
President, Sister E. B. Bagwell; Superintendent, Sister Howard John; 
Secretary, the writer; Treasurer, Sister Pearl Mummert.— Mrs. G. E. 
Wright, North Manchester, Ind., Jan. 3. 

MIDDLE CREEK, PA.— In 1922 we donated 2 comforts and a bed 
to the Old Folks' Home which was not mentioned in our previous 
report. In 1923 we held 12 meetings with an average attendance 
of 13; enrollment, 27, We sold vanilla, cook books, wash powder, 
furniture and silver polish, rugs and aprons, etc., also did quilt- 
ing. Receipts, $116.85; balance from 1922, $24.50. We paid $70 toward 
pastor's salary; $17.50 for Bro. Stover's books; $7.50 for cook books; 
$15.33 toward fixing pulpit; $10 to home mission building fund; $30 
for vanilla; $6,20 for drapery; total, $118.51; balance, $22.84. Officers: 
Mrs. W ; J. Kimmel, president; Mrs. C. A. Will, treasurer; the 
writer, secretary.— Mrs W. J. Knepper, Rockwood, Pa., Dec. 26: 

NEW PHILADELPHIA. OHIO.— We held 24 all-day meetings and 
3 half-day. We made dresses, aprons, comforters, quilts and did 
some work by the day. Enrollment, 20; average attendance, 9. Re- 
ceipts, $98.48. We gave to the Greene County School, $19.80; to 
Emergency Fund, $15.— Mrs. W. H. Wood, Secretary -Treasurer, 
New Philadelphia, Ohio, Jan. S. 

PYRMONT, IND.— Number of meetings held, 29; average attend- 
ance, 9. We made comforters, quilts, prayer-veils, aprons, etc. 
We served 6 sale dinners for which we received $124.66; from 
True Blue Class, $10; birthday offerings, $5.85; collections and 
sales, $73.70; balance from last year, $75.04; total, $289.43. Paid 
out: to J. L. Wagoner for house, $125; Virginia school, $15; Pyrmont 
church, $35; to the Home, $35; for rubber matting, $16.50; ma- 
terial, $24.84; to Chicago, $15; total, $266.34; balance, $23.09. We 
donated 9 comforters, 6 towels and clothing to the Home. Officers: 
President, Sister Elizabeth Beery; Vice-President, Sister . Katie 
Wagoner; Superintendents, Sisters Kate Sommers and Mary Barn- 
hart; Secretary, Sister Dora Wagoner; Treasurer, Sister Annie 
Stuart.— Eliza Flora, Pyrmont, Ind., Dec. 31. 

RUM MEL, PA.— We held 32 all-day meetings; average attend- 
ance, 9. We made 20 quilts, 54 prayer-veils; 4 aprons, 69 bonnets 
and 1 comfort. We sold vanilla extracts and stain-remover. Dona- 
tions: 9 coverings; for repairing of parsonage, $40; to Hastings 
Street Mission, $10; to Virginia Industrial School, $82; total re- 
ceived, $22.16; carried over, $78.94; offerings, $17.33; balance, $69.93. 
Officers: President, Mrs. Elmer Knavel; Vice-President, Mrs. James 
Murphy; Superintendent, Mrs. Lewis Statler; Secretary-Treasurer, 
the writer.— Mrs. Raymond Hoover, Rummel, Pa., Dec. 31. 

SPRING CREEK, IND.— We held 14 meetings; average attendance. 
12. We knotted 4 comforts, quilted 2 quilts, sewed 19j-i pounds 
rags, made 3 dresses, 8 gowns, 2 coats and other garments; pieced 
200 quilt blocks. We sent a baby outfit to China; a barrel of 
eatables to Marion Mission for Thanksgiving; box of clothing to 
Old Folks' Home for Christmas, and did much work in the com- 
munity. Money paid out: $35 to Virginia Home; $30 to church 
budget; $22 to South Whitley church; $24.18 for mothers' room ; 
$22.50 for new walks; $20.79 for material; $5.50 for flowers; $11.82 
for distributions; $5 to Brother and Sister Landis for Christmas; 
total, $176.84. Money taken in: $67.30 for sale dinners; $74.53 from 
markejs; $32.54 in free will offerings; $2.10 miscellaneous; $22.29 for 
apple butter; $5.50 for quilt; total, $202.26. Officers: Superintendent, 
Sister Maud Beigh; President, Sister Moyne Landis; Secretary, the 
writer.— Blanche Cole, Sidney, Ind., Jan. 5. 



MATRIMONIAL 



that the fifty i 

ice may be anp. 

senger ' subscription for the newly-married couple. Request should 
be made when the notice is sent, and full address given. 



Baahor-Bechtel.— By the undersigned, at the home of the bride's 
parents, Brother and Sister Aaron M. Bechtel, Empire, Calif., Dec. 
25. 1923, Brother Floyd D. Bashor, of Empire, Calif., and Sister 
Catharine J. Bechtel.— C. Ernest Davis, Modesto, Calif. 

Coffman-Sharp.— By the undersigned, at the bride's home, Dec. 
29, 1923. Brother Virgil S. Coffman, of South English, Iowa, and 
Sister Ruth G. Sharp, of Fredericksburg, Iowa.— A. M. Sharp, 
Fredericksburg, Iowa. 

Cooper-Zimmerman; Cooper- Brubaker. — By Bro. Galen B. Royer, Jr., 
and the writer, Dec. 23, 1923, at the Church of the Brethren, Mr! 
Edward Cooper and Miss Elizabeth Zimmerman; Mr. Dewey Cooper 
and Miss Clara Brubaker, all of New Carlisle, Ohio.— J. H. Eidemiller 
New Carlisle, Ohio. 

Cornbaw-Btnner.— By the undersigned, at the parsonage of the 
Reading church, Dec. 25, 1923, Norman Cornbaw, of Leetonia, Ohio, 
and Luella Benner, of Homeworth, Ohio.— J. I. Byler, Homeworth 
Ohio. 



Crill-Steele.— By the undersigned, Dec. 16, 1923, at the home of 
the bride's parents, Brother and Sister J. W. Steele, Brother 
Randall W. Crill, of Silver Lake, Ind., and Sister Beulah S. Steele 
of Wenatchee, Wash.— W. A. Deardorff, Wenatchee, Wash. 

Embick-Glotfelty.— At the home of the undersigned, Dec. 23, 1923, 
Mr. Paul Howard Embick, of Leaf River, III., and Sister Grace' 
Olive Glotfelty, of Mt. Morris, 111.— W. E. West, Mt. Morris, IU. 

Snider-Wagoner.— By the undersigned, at the home of the 'bride's 
parents, Brother and Sister Emerson Wagoner, Flora, Ind., Nov. 29, 
1923, Rola Snider, of Galveston, Ind., and Sister Mildred Wagoner.— 
W. L. Angle, Bringhurst, Ind. 

Tartcr-Kinney.— By the undersigned at the Boise Valley parsonage 
of the Church of the Brethren, Dec. 24, 1923. Mr. Melvin Tarter 
and Sister Dorothea Kinney, both of Star, Idaho.— H. M. Brubaker 
Meridian, Idaho. 

Zinn -Gordon.— At the home of the writer, Nov. 29, 1923, Mr. Chas. 
B. Zinn and Miss Fay Gordon, of New Carlisle, daughter of Brother 
and Sister Ezra Gordon.— J. H. Eidemiller, New Carlisle, Ohio. 



FALLEN ASLEEP 



Brandt. Amanda, nee Lehman, born Feb. 22, I860, died Nov. 26, 
1923. at her home in Annvillc. She was a faithful sister in the 
Brethren Church for about thirty-five years. She also was a 
faithful member of the Ladies' Aid and will be greatly missed. She 
leaves her husband, Nathan Brandt, four sons and three daughters. 
Services in the Annvillc church by Brethren Simon Bucher and 
Daniel Bucklew. Burial in the cemetery adjoining the South Ann- 
villc church.— Florence Keller, Lebanon, Pa. 

Broadwater, Juanita Viva, daughter of Brother and Sister J. W. 
Broadwater, died in the Preston hospital Dec. 11, 1923, aged 19 
years, 10 months and 17 days. She was a girl of high standing 
in her class and was a faithful attendant at both Sunday-school 
and young people's meetings. At the age of twelve she confessed 
Christ and united with the Brethren Church, living a beautiful 
Christian life to the last. It had been her desire to become a 
missionary. The end came suddenly after a brief illness. She 
leaves father and mother, four brothers and one sister.— Glen R. 
Montz, Preston, Minn. 

Brubaker, Sister Ellen, nee Wells, born in Henry County, Va., 
died in the bounds of the Antioch congregation, Franklin County, 
Va., Nov. 11, 1923, aged 58 years, 6 months and 16 days. She 
suffered from diabetes for several years. She became paralyzed 
last March and was almost helpless for several months. She 
called for the elders of the church and was anointed. She mar- 
ried Eld. L. E. Brubaker in 1892 and thus became the stepmother 
of four children. She also raised four children of her own. The 
children survive with her husband, several sisters, two brothers 
and a number of grandchildren. Services by Eld. Riley Flora and 
the writer. Interment in the cemetery at the church.— Isaac Bow- 
man, Callaway, Va. 

Byers, Martin Hoover, born near Woodbury, Pa., died at his 
home near Ashland, Ohio, Dec. 3, 1923, aged 83 years, 4 months 
and 7 days. He was a member of the Church of the Brethren for 
forty-seven years. One son preceded him in 1920. He leaves his 
wife, three sons and two daughters. Services at the home by 
S. G. Greyer, Dr. Allen J. Miller and Ora DeLauter.— Susie Greyer, 
Ashland, Ohio. 

Deardorff, Bro. John A., died Dec. 19, 1923, aged 73 years, 11 
months and 13 days. He was a lifelong resident of Butler Town- 
ship. He is survived by his wife, three sons, twelve grandchildren 
and two great-grandchildren. Services at the Mummert house by 
Elders B. F. Lightner and Chas. Baker. Interment in the ceme- 
tery adjoining the church.— Ida M. Lightner, Gettysburg, Pa. 

Eckerle, Elizabeth, daughter of Daniel C. and Anna Cripe, born 
at Pyrmont, Ind., died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Chas. 
Tritle, South Bend, Ind., Dec. 2, 1923, aged 75 years. She mar- 
ried Ephraim Parkins May 21, 1865. There were two sons and five 
daughters. After the death of her husband and after four years 
of struggle to keep the home together, she married Samuel Bechtel- 
heimer, a minister of the Church of the Brethren, Jan. 27, 1894. There 
was one child. The home ties were again broken by the death of 
the husband. Her third husband was Leopold Eckerle, who died 
in 1915. When sixteen years of age she gave her heart to the 
Savior and with a steadfastness rarely equalled, served and sacrificed 
for the promotion of the worthiest and highest ideals of the King- 
dom. Her last service was a love feast of the church on Monday 
evening before being stricken with paralysis on Friday. Four 
times in later life she received the anointing and always received 
an abundant blessing from it. She is survived by five sisters 
and two brothers, four children, nine grandchildren, three great- 
grandchildren and ten step-children. Services at the Church of 
the Brethren at Flora, Ind., by Bro. I. R. Beery and H. C. Early. 
Interment in the Hoover cemetery, Cass County. — Nellie Bechtcl- 
hcimer, South Bend, Ind. 

Eshelman, Sister Elizabeth (Latshaw), born near Greencastle, 
Franklin Co.. Pa., on Feb. 8, 1848, died Dec. 13, 1923, at the home 
of her niece, Mrs. Minnick, aged 75 years, 10 months and 5 days. 
She was a member of the Church of the Brethren for many years 
and remained faithful. Two Brothers and one sister survive. Funeral 
services were held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Minnick by Eld. 
C. R. Oellig, assisted by Eld. J. M. Moore, after which the body 
was interred in Burns Hill cemetery.— Mrs. J. M. Moore, Waynes- 
boro, Pa. 

Fuller, Harry, son of Jacob and Mary Fuller, born in Cuyahoga 
County, Ohio, died at his home near Oakwood, Ohio, Dec. 27, 
1923, aged 83 years, 8 months and 27 days. Bro. Fuller served in 
the Civil War in Company 1, 88th O. V. I. Nov. 7, 1869, he mar- 
ried Polly Carnahan. There were five children, three of whom 
preceded him. The widow and two sons remain with six grand- 
children. Brother and Sister. Fuller had also taken into the 
home three other children. Bro. Fuller became a member of the 
Church of the Brethren about thirty-eight years ago. In 1894 
he was chosen to the ministry in the Blanchard church. While 
he was past middle life when called he never shirked his duty 
but tried to do whatever the church required of him until his 
age and declining health prevented. A little over a year ago 
be had a stroke which affected his body and mind, yet he did 
not lose interest in the church. Services in the U. B. church 
in Oakwood by D. P. Wellcr. Burial in the cemetery near town.— 
Verna Kohart, Continental, Ohio. 

Grimm, Sister Vandalia (Brown), born in Brownsville, Md., died 
at the home of her son, A. B. Grimm, Freeport, 111., Dec. 14, 1923, 
aged 83 years, 4 months and 8 days. She was married to Geo. 
Grimm in 1866. They moved to Ogle County, 111., in 1879, where 
they lived until about thirty years ago when they came to Free- 
port. Bro. Grimm died in 1918. She had been a member of the 
church for about sixty-eight years and had been active even in her 
old age. She was present at almost every service and was a great 
worker in the Aid Society. Services by the writer at the church 
in Freeport,— G. G. Canfield, Freeport, 111. 

Howard, Geo. W-, born in Preble County, Ohio, died in German- 
town, Ohio, Dec. 12. 1923, aged 78 years, 4 months and 2 days. 
He was married to Miss Emma C. Macy Sept. 6, 1866. There were 
twelve sons and three daughters, He was converted in 1890 and 
was received into the Church of the Brethren by baptism. He 
called for the anointing service Sept. 29, 1922. He leaves his wife, 
nine sons and two daughters. Services by D. M. Garver, as- 
sisted by Noah Erbaugh.— Edythe Erbaugh, West Alexandria, Ohio. 

Isenbarger, Elizabeth, nee Kemper, born near Silver Lake, Ind., 
died Dec, 13. 1923, aged 68 years. 9 months and 26 days. She united 
with the Church of the Brethren at an early age and lived a 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19. 1924 



47 



devoted Christian life. She was married to Geo. Isenbarger Oct. 
27 1881. There were six children, three ot whom with the husband 
preceded her. She leaves three sons, several grandchildren, four 
brothers and one sister. Services by Bro. T. D. Butterbaugh as- 
sisted by Bro. Amos Freed at the Eel River church. Burial in 
the cemetery near by. — Laura Miller, North Manchester, Ind. 

Kreps, Alfred, born in Ogle County, 111., Oct. I, 1863, died Dec. 
i\ 1923. aged 55 years, 2 months and 20 days. He married Daisy 
Drew in 1892- There were two children who with their mother sur- 
vive; also two grandchildren and eight sisters. He, with his 
family, moved to Foster County. N. Dak., in 1897, where he had 
since resided. He united with the Church of the Brethren in 
1897; was elected to the ministry ia 1902; ordained elder in 1911, 
laboring faithfully until death. He was elder of the Carrington 
church at the time of his death.— Emma Stambaugh, Carrington, 
N. Dak. 

Lcavell. Oritla, nee Ctfenmens, born April 24, 1848, near Peru, 
Ind., died Oct. 8, 1923, near Majorville, Alta., Canada. She mar- 
ried John Leavell Oct. 1, 1868. There were four daughters and six 
sons. Brother and Sister Leavell united with the church in 1873. 
She was a devoted mother and a true Christian. She was a great 
reader, having read the Bible through a number of times. She 
also enjoyed the " Messenger." She leaves five sons and three 
daughters. Services by the writer at Bow Valley church. In- 
terment in the Bow Valley cemetery.— Luther Shatto, Gleichen, 
Alta., Canada. 

Masterson, Anna Catherine, daughter of Samuel S. and Mattic 
Mastcrson, born in Lancaster County, Pa., Nov. 13, 1865, died Dec. 
6. 1923, in Los Angeles, Calif. She united with the Church of the 
Brethren in November. 1888, at the Sugar Creek church near Auburn, 
111. She was faithful in attending Sunday-school and church. 
She is survived by her mother, three brothers and three sisterG. 
Services at the Bresce Chapel by Eld. J. M. Boaz, assisted by Rev. 
Jennings. Interment in the Inglcwood cemetery.— N. J. Brubakei, 
Los Angeles, Calif, 

Messick, William Perry, son of Brother and Sister Charles Mes- 
sick, was born near Landess, Ind., Nov. 28, 1881. He received 
his education in the public schools of Indiana and Ohio. At 
Marion, Ind., on April 4, 1906, he was united in marriage with 
Pearl Eckroad. Two children blessed this union. With his family 
and parents he came to Butte Valley, Calif., in April, 1907. In 
connection with his father, he erected the first store building 
in Macdoel and this pioneer mercantile enterprise has bedn con- 
tinued until the present. On Thanksgiving Day, November 29, the 
day after his forty-second birthday, while duck hunting,, he 
received an accidental gunshot wound that resulted in his death 
on Dec. 9, 1923. He ia survived by his wife, daughter, son, father, 
mother, brother, and sister. Services in the Butte Valley church 
by the writer. Interment in the Lake View Cemetery at Macdoel, 
California. — C. Ernest Davis, Modesto, California. 

Newcomer, Sister Eliza Gearhart, born in St. Joseph County, 
died at her home near Tyner, Ind., Dec. IS, 1923, aged 60 years, 3 
months and .15 days. At the age of sixteen years she united with 
the Church of the Brethren and remained a devout Christian. 
Marcli 26, 1882, she married Samuel Newcomer. There were two 
daughters and one son. The son and one daughter preceded her. 
She ii !■. ( , her husband, one daughter, three grandchildren and 
one sister. Her last sickness was of about three months' dura- 
tion, which she bore without a murmur, and during which she 
received the anointing. Services by Bro. J. F. Appleman and Arthur 
Miller in the Methodist church at North Liberty. Burial in the 
adjoining cemetery.— Mrs. Stella Ruff, Plymouth, Ind., Dec. 26. 

Ott, Daniel Howard, son of Jenoress^T. and Malinda Ott, born 
near Carleton, Nebr., died Nov. 26, 1923, at his home near Cash- 
mere, Wash., aged 41 years, 9 months and 2 days. In February, 
1921, he had the flu from which he never fully recovered and about 
six months ago inflammation of the brain developed. At times 
his suffering was intense but he bore it patiently. He was baptized 
into the Church of the Brethren in 1900. June 29, 1913, he mar- 
ried Miss Nora Peake, who survives with one daughter, one son, 
his father, seven brothers and one sister. His mother preceded 
him four years ago. Services by Rev. P. E. Ratsch, of the 
Presbyterian church. Interment in the Cashmere cemetery.— Mollie 
Fillmore, Gridley, Calif. 

Painter, Irvin Lee, born Uct. 28, 1917, died Oct. 29, 1923, aged 
6 years, and 1 day. He leaves father, mother, three sisters and 
oce brother. Services by the Brethren. Burial in the New Port 
cemetery. — John H. Painter, Stanley, Va. 

Plummer, Geo. W., son of Jos. and Elizabeth Plummer, died of 
paralysis Dec. 9, 1923, aged 45 years, 11 months and 24 days. Jan. 
6. 1905, he married Anna B. German. His entire life was spent 
in Clark County, Ohio. Sept. 19, 1923, he united with the Church 
of the Brethren. This spiritual relationship brought him great 
peace and comfort. He was anointed Nov. 28. He leaves his wife, 
two brothers and four sisters. Services by Bro. D. S. Dredge and 
the writer.— J. B. Gump, New Carlisle, Ohio. 

Rice, Sister Margarete, nee Miller, was born near Lanark, 111., 
June 8, 1B55, and died at her home in Lanark, Dec. 30, 1923, aged 
68 years, 6 months and 22 days. She was the daughter of Jacob 
P. and Susan Miller. She leaves her husband, David Rice, and 
one brother. Two sisters, one brother and a half sister preceded her, 
besides two sisters who died in infancy. She was converted in the fall 
of 1876 and united with the Church of the Brethren at Cherry Grove, 
111. She lived a faithful and consistent life until the end. Service 
at Lanark, III., by Rev. J. Clyde Forney and Rev. P. F. Eckerle. 
Interment at the Cherry Grove cemetery.— J. Clyde Forney, Lanark, 

Sharp, Lydia, died Dec. 14, 1923, aged 54 years, 11 months and 
13 days. Services from the home of Mrs. Lucinda Frey by Eld. 
J- A. Long. Interment at Green Mount cemetery.— Mrs. G. W. 
Krafft, York, Pa. 

Spangler, Abraham, born Dec. 19, 1849, died Oct. 3, 1923, at the 
Jefferson Hospital, Roanoke, Va. He was married to Amanda Bow- 
man Oct. 27, 1886. There were seven children, five of whom are 
living. One son died in infancy and one when a young man. 
He joined the Brethren church about thirty-five years ago and 
served as deacon the greater part of the time. He was a devoted 
Christian, a great Bible student and Sunday-school worker. Services 
at Red Oak Grove by Elders W. F. Vest and Charlie Williams.— 
Mrs. H. W. Spangler, Floyd, Va. 

Toms, Sister Mary Amanda (Suman), born March 21, 1860, at 
Hagerstown, Md.* died Aug. 19, 1923. Services by the under- 
signed, at Mt Morris, III.— W. E. West, Mt. Morris, 111. 

Whitlow, Sister Elizabeth (Weiler) was born in Malmo, Sweden, 
July 21, 1886, died at her home near Fresno, Oct. 25, 1923, aged 37 
year, 3 months and 4 days. She came to the United States in 
1905 and lived for one year in Washington, D. C. She came to 
California in 1906, and made her home with Brother and Sister 
Albert Vaniman, in Pasadena. She had learned to know them 
while they were missionaries in Sweden. She was married to Ollin 
Whitlow June 23, 1912. Soon afterward they moved to Fresno, 
where they have since made their home. About two years ago 
Sister Whitlow became afflicted with sciatic rheumatism, and later 
cancer, which along with other complications caused intense suffer- 
ing during the whole time of her illness. For over one year she 
was confined to her bed. Through all her suffering she manifested 
such a sweet and patient disposition that her life became a bene- 
diction to the whole church and community. She never lost her 
trust and faith in her Savior to whom she had given her heart 
early m life. Besides her husband and two children, she leaves 
one sister— who came from Sweden nearly a year ago, that she 
jnight wait upon her— four brothers, and her mother, who still 
lives in Sweden. Services by Bro. A. O. Brubaker. Interment 
'« the Mountoin View Cemetery, Fresno.-Mrs. Amanda Crump, 
Fresno, Calif. 



Natural Questions Answered Right 

The bitter cry of many a deceived girl is " If I had only known " — . The need is 
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men and women, if not satisfied in right ways will lead to wrong doing. 

The Self and Sex Series 



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By Sylvanus Stall, D. D. 
Condensed Table* of Contents follow 

What a Young Boy Ought to Know 

Part I. — How God reproduces the flowers, in- 
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the oyster. — The bird's eggs and the baby bird. 
Part II. — The manner in 
which the reproductive sys- 
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abuse. Part III.— The con- 
sequences in boys of abuse. 
Part IV. — How boys may 
preserve their purity and 
strength. Part V.— Our 
duty to aid others. Part 
VI. — How purity and 
strength may best be re- 
gained. Part VII.— The 
age of adolescence. 

What a Young Man Ought 
to Know 

Part I.— Strength.— The 
manly mastery of self. 
Part II. — Weakness: How 
to overcome. — Part III. — 
Evils to be shunned and 
consequences to be dread- 
ed. Part IV. — Reproduc- 
tion. — All life from the 
seed or egg. Part V. — 
Who should not marry. — 
Selection of a wife. — Early 
and late marriages, etc. 

What a Young Husband 
Ought to Know 

Part I.— What he ought to 
know concerning himself. — _ 
What is excess. — Purity and ~ 

fidelity. Part II. — What he ought to know concern- 
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The wrongs of wifehood. Part III.— What he ought 
to know concerning his children.— Heredity.— Parent- 
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What a Man of 45 Ought to Know 

Part I. — What he ought to know concerning him- 
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II.— What he ought to know concerning his wife.— 
The menopause, and the physical changes which fol- 
low. 




! What AYoung Man Ought to Know [[I 
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'WhatAYoungVVomanOughttoKnowl 



( WliatAYoung Wife-Ought lo Know ( 



, What A'Woman of 45 Ought to Know) U 



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Conden.ed Tables of Contents follow 

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_I.*«or« from the birds. Part III.— Animals 
and their young.— Human 
infants the most helpless. 
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— Mothers dealing honest- 
ly with their children. 
What a Young Woman 

Ought to Know 

By Mrs. Mary Wood-Allen, 

M. D. 

Part I.— Girlhood and 
growth.— How to obtain 
health and development. 
Part II.— Womanhood.— 
The crisis in the girl's life. 
—Causes and cures for 
wrong physical conditions. 
—The consequences of mis- 
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What are the requisites in 
a husband.— Engagements. 
— Weddings. 

What a Young Wife Ought 
to Know 

By Mrs. Emma F. A. Drake 
M. D. 
Choice of a husband. 
The marital relations. Par- 
enthood. Maternity and 
health. The stages of pre- 
natal culture. Expectant 
maternity. Baby's ward- 
Physician and nurse. The birth-cham- 
Care of baby. Guarding against vice. 



robe 
ber. 
Helps for mothers. 

What a Woman of 45 Ought to Know 

By Mrs. Emma F. A. Drake, M. D. 
Physical changes in middle life. Causes, 
symptoms, etc., etc. Importance of right men- 
tal attitude. Valuable suggestions. 



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14 S. State St, Elgin, Hmois 



48 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 19, 1924 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER 

Official Organ of the Church of the Brethren 
Published weekly by Brethren Publishing House. R. E. Arnold, Gen- 
eral Manager, 16 to 24 S. State St., Elgin, 111- at $200 per annum, in 
advance. (Canada subscriptions fifty cents extra.) 

Editor 

Assistant Editor 



EDWARD FRANTZ, - 

1_ A. PLATE' (Died Dec. 31. 1923), 



Entered at the Postoffice at Elgin, 111., as Second-class Matter. 
Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in 
section 1103, Act of October 3, 1917, authorized August 20, 1918. 

Notes From Our Correspondents 

(Continued from Page 45) 
ing for us duiing the summer, but because of distance and rain 
and bad roads he has not been here for some time. Bro. D. E. 
Cripe, also of Thomas, is our elder, but docs not get here often 
cither. On account of poor health the writer is unable to do 
any preaching. We have had a Sunday-school and midweek prayer 
meetings. Recently we had two additions to the church by bap- 
tism—a young husband and wife. They never knew anything about 
our church till they moved among us last spring. Members or 
ministers desiring a new location would be more than welcome here. 
We have a flourishing little town. Those desiring information may 
write to the undersigned.— A. Leedy, Leedy, Okla., Jan. 7. 

WashiU church met in council Dec. 27, with Eld. D. E. Cripe 
presiding. The following officers were elected for the year: D. E. 
Cripe, elder; L. A. Vaniman, clerk; Clark S. Garst, Sunday-school 
superintendent; Oliver Lowber, Christian Workers" president. Nov. 
24 the Ladies' Aid Society held a bazaar in Cordcll, clearing a 
little over $40. The Washita church surely enjoyed a treat 
Dec. 14-16 when Dr. D. W. Kurtz, of McPhcrson College, gave us 
five inspirational lectures on the " Fundamental Doctrines of Faith." 
We feel that the church has had a very successful year, much of 
it due to the faithful efforts of our pastor, Bro. J. H. Blough.— 
Pearl Wiltfong, Cordcll, Okla., Jan. 2. 

OREGON 

Portland church is moving along in its different lines of activity 
with an increased attendance at all services. We arc glad to 
welcome EM. Amos Reed and family, of Idaho, who moved here 
recently; also Eld. Paul Mohler, of Washington, who is spending 
the winter in the city. We greatly appreciate the help of these 
ministers. Bro. Mohler has given a few of his instructive Bible 
lectures at the Christian Workers' hour. Nov. 24 we held our 
regular council. Bro. J. W. Barnett was chosen elder for another 
year; Sister Lora Cheney, clerk; Bro. A. L. Buck, trustee; Bro. 
M. R. Caslow, Sunday-school superintendent; Sister Flora Johnson, 
president of Christian Workers. Different committees were also 
chosen. Bro. Strycker, of Wenatchec, Wash., came to us Dec. 2. 
He preached fifteen spiritual sermons in all. Owing to sickness 
the meetings were not so well attended, but those who did come re- 
ceived a spiritual uplift. The revival closed with a roost enjoyable 
love feast with sixty-five present. Bro. Strycker officiated. A 
number from the Newberg congregation were with us, among them 
Elders Van Dyke and Reed. Dec. 8 the Aid Society served lunch 
and held their annual Christmas sale, the proceeds o( which were 
570. The Sunday-school gave a Christmas program Dec. 23. We 
had a White Gift service and provisions and money were brought 
by the different classes of the Sunday-school. The provisions were 
given to the needy and the money, $15.65, for missions. A Christ- 
mas program was also given at the Damascus Mission. The young 
people motored out from Portland and assisted in the program. 
An impressive installation service, conducted by our pastor, Bro. 
Barnett. was held Dec. 30 for all Sunday-school and Christian 
Workers' officers and teachers. In the evening two young women 
were baptized. New Year's Eve the young people's class enter- 
tained the intermediate boys and girls at the home of our pastor. 
Sister Edna Phillips, of Bethany Bible School, is with us this 
winter and gives her assistance freely. Our church is located on 
the corner of Borthwick and Brainard Streets. Members and 
friends visiting in the city are welcome.— Nora Rench Pratt, Clacka- 
mas, Ore., Jan. 1. 

PENNSYLVANIA 
Akron.— The series of protracted meetings in charge of Eld. J. W. G. 
Hcrshey, of Lititz, was well attended. The messages were very 
inspiring and instructive, resulting in three confessions. Baptismal 
services were held on Saturday.— David H. Snader, Akron, Pa., 
Dec, 29. 

Fairvlew churth (Georges Creek) met in council Dec. 20, with 
Eld. J. E. Whitacre presiding. The following church officers were 
elected for the year: J. G. Cover, secretary; Sunday-school super- 
intendent, Anna Cover; J. P.. Merryman, president of Christian 
Workers' Meeting; the writer, church correspondent and "Messenger" 
agent. We also met in council Jan. 1, with our elder presiding. 
General church officers were elected, Bro. J. E. Whitacre being re- 
elected elder for another year; D. F. Lepley, secretary. Our Sun- 
day-school rendered a fine program on Christmas night which 
was enjoyed by all.— Mrs. Grace Merryman, Masontown, Pa., Jan. 4. 
Falling Spring.— Dec. 15 and 16 Brethren J. G. Mycr and A. C. 
Baugher, of Elizabcthtowu College, held a Bible Institute at the 
Brownsmill church. The different sessions were well attended and 
were very interesting. The labors of these brethren were much 
appreciated. Dec. 23 the Shady Grove Sunday-school reorganized 
for the year by electing the writer superintendent. — H. N. M. 
Gearhart. Shady Grove, Pa., Jan. 3. 

Harrisburg.— Our church met in council Dec. 9, when the follow- 
ing church officers were elected for the year: Clerk, I, F. Baker; 
trustee, John Engle; correspondent, Grace Madeira; " Messenger " 
solicitor, Mamie Trimmer; Sunday-school superintendent, H. K. 
Balsbaugh; president of Christian Workers' Society, C. E. Shuler. 
We rendered our Christmas program Sunday evening, Dec. 23. The 
Teacher-training Class, of which Bro. Chas. C. Madeira, Jr., is 
teacher, will have graduation exercises Feb. 10. They have the 
promise of Bro. R. W. Schlosser being here to address them. Our 
monthly meetings at the Polyclinic Hospital and the Dauphin 
County Home were held Dec. 9 and 16 respectively. On New Year's 
evening our church rendered a program at the County Home, after 
which a little gift was given each of the inmates, and refresh- 
ments were served.— Laura Grace Madeira, Harrisburg, Pa., Jan. 2. 
Hyndman.— Bro. J. W. Fyock, of Tyrone, Pa., began a revival at 
this place Nov. 30 and preached nineteen powerful sermons. Two 
were received by baptism. The meetings closed Dec. 16 with a 
love feast. The members of Cumberland, Md., fourteen miles east 
of us, and the Hyndman members have recently been organized into 
one congregation with two meeting points. But it was decided, 
since Cumberland has not as yet a church building of its own, 
to hold this revival and love feast jointly in the Hyndman church. 
The Cumberland members came by auto truck to the meetings 
and love feast, helping to make it the best revival and love feast 
held here in the last fifteen years. Ministers present were -W. J. 
Hamilton, A. Scrogum, and J. W. Fyock, who officiated. About 
thirty-five communed. This church, though it was at one time 
a working church of forty or more members, became so badly run 
down as a result of neglect, that its doors were closed seven years 
ago. They remained so until our field director, W. J. Hamilton, 
made his first visit here about three years ago to investigate con- 
ditions. He urged us to make another effort, if only to reorganize 
the Sunday-school. Since the city of Cumberland has passed into 
the hands of our District Board, realizing what this will mean 
to both the Cumberland and Hyndman folks, and with a promise 
of a resident pastor soon, we feel like lifting our heads and look- 
ing with hope into the future. We feel quite certain that as a 
result of Bro. Fyock's effective preaching and the good work done 



by him among the outside people, the ice has been broken. We 
believe that if our Mission Board will follow up the good work 
by placing a resident pastor here, we shall be able to take our 
rightful place with other churches of the community. We wish 
to extend an invitation to any .ministers passing this way who 
would like to help the cause along, to give us an appointment. 
We shall appreciate it.—Edwawl Harden, Hyndman, Pa., Dec. 31- 

Jacobs Creek.— Dec. 7 we gave a surprise birthday party at the 
home of our pastor, F. A. Myers, in honor of Sister Myers. Dec. 
23, after a heart-searching discourse on "God's Financial Plan," the 
pastor called for pledges, and twenty-five voted to give at least 
one-tenth of their income to the Lord's cause. In the evening our 
Sunday-school, Mt. Joy, gave an inspiring cantata, " The Shep- 
herds' Vision," with forty-five characters, to a crowded house. A 
white gift offering of $145.86 for world-wide missions, was lifted, 
averaging over a dollar for each member enrolled. The Juniata Col- 
lege Men's Glee Club rendered sacred songs Dec. 27. Dec. 30 the 
new Sunday-school officers and teachers were installed. Bro. Myers 
addressed us forcefully. C. M. Metz is superintcnHent. The first 
number of our new congregational monthly, " Our Church Gleaner," 
is out; it is published by the Board of Religious Education. We 
have a new platform and pulpit, and remodeling for our church- 
house is nearly done.— Frank B. Myers, Mt. Pleasant, Pa., Dec. 31. 

Marsh Creek church met in council Jan. 1, with Eld. Grant 
Group presiding. Wc will reorganize the Sunday-school at the 
Marsh Creek house April 6. We decided to hold two love feasts 
this year, one at the Marsh Creek house in the spring, the other 
at the Friends Grove house in the fall. Our love feast will be 
held June 1 at the Marsh Creek house, beginning at 2: 30 P. 
M. Our church is progressing nicely.— Ida M. Lightner, Gettys- 
burg, Pa., Jan. 3. 

SOUTH DAKOTA 

Willow Creek church is thankful for the mild winter weather. 
On the Sunday before Thanksgiving our Sunday-school gave an 
interesting program during the sermon hour. Afterward each one 
present received a pop corn hall which a number of the mothers 
had provided. Dec 23 a Christmas program was given to an ap- 
preciative audience, We put forth an effort to raise a dollar per 
member as requested by our Mission Board. Our Sunday-school 
observes the third Sunday of each month as missionary Sunday by , 
devoting part of the time to missionary talks, recitations, etc. A 
special offering is taken for the Emergency Fund each third Sun- 
day. We have organized a Christian Workers' Society and this 
with special song services takes the place of the evening sermon 
while our pastor is away in 'evangelistic services. Our elder 
preaches lor us each Sunday morning.— Lola M. Root, Wetonka, S. 
Dak., Dec. 30. 

TENNESSEE 

Liberty.— Bro. John Jackson, of Relief, N. C, came here Dec. 29, 
and preached in all sixteen inspiring sermons. He also visited in 
several homes. The church was very much revived. Two came 
out on the Lord's side.— Mrs. J. B. Iscnbcrg, Joncsboro, Tcnn., Jan. 8. 

VIRGINIA 

Belmont church met in council at the Belmont house Dec. 22, 
with Eld. I. N. Zigler presiding. The following officers were elected 
for the year: Bro. I. N. Zigler, presiding elder; L. S. Mason, clerk; 
G. T. Yagel, " Messenger " agent; Sister Florence Yagel, corre- 
spondent. The Sunday - school gave a program at Belmont on 
Christmas night. It was well attended and enjoyed by all. Our 
Sunday-school will be reorganized in the spring. — Alma V. Mason, 
Don, Va., Jan. 3. 

Peters Creek Sunday-school and Christian Workers' Society were 
reorganized Christmas Day. G. B. Showalter was elected super- 
intendent of the Peters Creek Sunday-school; Miller Garst, super- 
intendent of the Salem school; Albert Showalter, superintendent 
of Mason's Cove school; Aubrey Nolley, president of the Peters 
Creek Christian Workers' Society.— Ida Showalter, Roanoke, Va., Jan. 5. 

Schoolfield church met in council Dec. 27, and organized for the 
year's work. A. T. Prather was chosen elder; W. A. Reed, as- 
sistant elder and pastor; O. J. Prather, clerk; W. C. Swift, church 
correspondent and " Messenger " agent, also Sunday-school super- 
intendent. . Several committees were chosen— temperance and purity, 
missionary, ministerial, dress reform, music and program.— W. C. 
Swift, Schoolfield, Va., Jan. 1. 

Topeco church met in council Jan. 5. Officers were elected for 
the year: Bro. -John W. Weddle, Sunday-school superintendent; Sister 
Maggie Hylton, clerk; Sister Alice Harman, "Messenger" agent; the 
writer, correspondent. Since our last report eleven have been bap- 
tized in our congregation as the result of two scries of meet- 
ings, one of which was held at Rock- Hill by E. C. Woodie and 
one at our home church by "Bro. W. M. Kahlc.— Almeda Alderman, 
Floyd, Va., Jan. 7. 

WASHINGTON 

North Spokane. — As a result ol our white Christmas program $20 
was raised for the Emergency Fund. Dec. 30 our quarterly council 
was held. The following officers were elected: W. H. Tigner, elder; 
I. H. Jordans, clerk; A. A. Dull, Sunday-school superintendent; 
Walter Scott, Christian Workers' president; Sister Raula Snider, 
correspondent.— Mrs. A. A. Dull, Hillyard, Wash., Dec. 31- 

WEST VIRGINIA 

Bethel church met in council Dec. 29, with Eld. A. S. Arnold 
presiding. The Sunday-school was reorganized with Bro. James 
Wratchford, superintendent. A revival meeting and a week's Bible 
term were planned for the year. We have just closed a splendid 
period of Bible study, beginning Dec. 23 and ending the following 
Sunday. The books taught were John, Acts and Ephesians, with 
Brethren B. W. Smith and Ross Johnson as instructors. One 
twenty minute period was taught each evening on each book, with 
preaching following. Our evergreen Sunday-school has been pro- 
gressing nicely this fall and winter. Although our Christian Work- 
ers' Society has decreased we hope for better interest next spring.— 
Cread D. Sions, Old Fields, W. Va., Jan. 2. 

Eglon congregation enjoyed its seventeenth annual Bible Institute 
Dec. 23-30, with Bro. J. G. Meyer, from Elizabethtown College, as 
instructor. He had a forty-minute period each forenoon in which 
he taught from the following subjects: Keeping the Faith, Poor in 
Spirit, The Gift of God, Hunger and Thirst, Pure in Heart, Jesus the 
Fulfillment, and Motives in Religion. He had a thirty-minute period 
in the afternoon, teaching from subjects which we're helpful to all. 
Bro. Ezra Fike taught from the Book of Titus in the forenoon and 
Bro. L. H. Fike taught Colossians in the afternoon. Wc had a fifteen 
minute song period each day, with Bro. Harvey Fike as instructor. 
A number of recitations were given and a few essays read. Thev also 
had two query periods and a twenty-minute talk in the afternoon by 
some member from the congregation. Bro. Meyer preached each 
evening and always had a good message. A Christmas program was 
rendered by one of the organized classes, consisting of recitations, 
songs, etc. The meeting was good throughout and the attendance 
large nearly every day. Dec. 30 was missionary day. Bro. Obed 
Hamstcad talked on the subject, " Are We Doing the Best We 
Can for Our Home Field?" "Our Individual Privilege in Mission 
Work," was explained by Bro. J. A. Arnold. Some time was spent 
in special prayer for missions. A missionary sermon was preached 
by Bro. Meyer in the afternoon. The Sunday-school teachers and 
officers for the year were installed by Bro. Meyer on Sunday morn- 
ing.— Goldie Judy Moon, Eglon, W. Va., Jan. 1. 



v — *^^^*L 


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WISCONSIN 

Wok), i. church met in council Dee. 5 with Bro. R. G. Rarick pre- 
siding. Officers were elected for the year with Bro. Ernie Holderman, 
church trustee; Vera Carmien, "Messenger" correspondent; Sunday- 
school superintendent, Bro. Kensingcr. We decided to get an organ 
for the church. Bro. Rarick closed a very successful scries of meet- 
ings Nov. 14 with a fellowship supper. Sixteen were added to the 
church. Our communion was held Nov. 20, with Bro. Weber, from 
Chippewa Valley, officiating. The work at this place is progressing 
nicely.— Vera Carmien, Stanley, Wis,, Jan. 1. 



Our 1924 Catalog 

100 Page*; Illustrated. Mailed free upon request 

Brethren Publishing House?, Elgin, ML 



MISSIONS, THE FIRST WORK 

The new book by Wilbur B. Stover, entitled 
for short, just "First-Work," is now running its 
third edition. The Sisters' Aid Societies, and 
other groups, find in it a splendid opportunity to 
do practical mission work, and at the same time 
increase their treasury balance. The plan is to 
send out children on Saturdays and evenings, not 
to canvass, but to sell them. Our recommenda- 
tion is to sell them for a half dollar each, for few 
will refuse a mission book at that price. Order 
in lots and go to work: ten books at 40c each, 50 
books at 35c each, and we pay carriage. Books in 
quantities have gone to quite a few different 
churches. Has your Church taken advantage of 
the opportunity to make money and spread the 
influence of this book? 

This is a really worth-while book. Eld. 
S. Z. Sharp says: "I read this book with 
the deepest interest. It treats a subject of 
vital importance at the present time, and 
should have a large sale." 

Eld. A. P. Blough, says: " This is an inter- 
esting book. It grips one thoroughly." 

Editor Frantz: " It makes good the con- 
tention of the title." 

Charles Bonsack: " Every page is filled 
with the optimism of faith." 

Pastor Edgar Rothrock: " You place the 
emphasis where it belongs. I hope this 
book will find its way into every home of 
our church.." 

Pastor James M. Moore: " This book 
comes at an opportune time. It should be 
read by every member of our beloved 
brotherhood." 

President Otho Winger: " Brother Stover 
has well stated and effectively emphasized 
the correct answer to a most important 
question — What is the great First-Work of 
the Church? It is MISSIONS." 

Prof. E. B. Hoff: " This little book on 
Missions contains much material for 
thought, and should be in every home in 
our church. Not until we have learned 
that our first and sole business is missionary 
work have we learned what Christianity 
really means." 

Elder J. A. Ressler: " A remarkable chap- 
ter points out the United States as a most 
strategic mission field of the world. Right 
here at home we need our best work in 
order that the best work may be done in 
other fields." • 

"The Sunbeam Class," York, Pa., writes: 
"We sold 50 copies. It is a fine book and 
we really enjoyed selling them." 

Single copy, postpaid, 60 cents. 

BRETHREN PUBLISHING HOUSE 

Elgin, 111. 



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GOSPEL MESSENGER • 



The Gospel Messenger 



" Thia Gospel of the Kingdom ahall be preached 
in the whole world."— Matt. 24: 14. 



"THY KINGDOM COME "— M....6: io : L„k, it: 2 



" Till we all attain unto ... the stature of 
the fulness of Christ."— Eph. 4: 13. 



Vol. 73 



Elgin, 111., January 26, 1924 



No. 4 



In This Number 

Editorial— 

"This One Thing I Do" (J. E. M.) 49 

Three Requisites of Church Prosperity 49 

Room That Is Not Emptiness, v 49 

Why It Is So Slow : 49 

Among the Churches, 24 

Around the World (J. E. M.), 2S 

The Quiet Hour (J. H. H.) 25 

Our Forward Movement— 

Our Contributions, ■ S3 

Response from Pastors, 53 

Why at the Bottom? S3 

Mission Notes (H. S. M.) 53 

Hints in Religious Education (E. F.) S3 

Contributors' Forum- 
Places (Poem). By W. J. Swigart SO 

Back to Earth.— No. 7. By H. A. Brandt 50 

The Year's Outlook. By M. G. Brumbaugh 50 

The Youth Movement of the World. By D. W. Kurtz 51 

Chief Scats and Their Attainment. By Joseph D. Rcish, 51 

More Impressions From the Indianapolis Convention. By W. 

O. Beckner 52 

What Is Ambition? By Eliza Pope Van Dyne 52 

The Foreign Missions Conference of North America. By H. 
H. Nye, 52 

The Round Table— 

The Bible— A Gift at Baptism. By G. W. Kieffaber 54 

Regions Beyond. By Archer Wallace - t 54 

The Slacker. By J. A. Robinson 54 

The Problem of the Lodge. By Norman A. Wilson 54 

No Time to Play, 54 

Don't Draw the Long Bow 54 

Home and Family — 

Cyclamen Rare (Poem). By Julia Graydon 55 

A Better Understanding Between Husband and Wife. By Eliza- 
beth Rosenbcrger Blough 55 

A Wise Mother. By Elsie K. Sanger 55 



EDITORIAL, 



"This One Thing I Do " 

In these words Paul has narrowed his resolves to one 
thing. He is no longer a young man or he would name 
at least a score of objects toward which he is striving. 
Years and experience teach us to narrow the field. In 
youth we feel able to grapple with many tasks and to 
cope with many situations, but if we have battled long 
we are ready to confine ourselves to smaller limits. 

He was capable of doing more than one thing. His 
natural endowments were extensive. His education 
was the best of his day. His travels had acquainted 
him with many lands. His work had brought him into 
contact with all classes, and he understood them. He 
was equally at home with the king on the throne and 
the beggar on the street. He could deliver his message 
to the philosophers at Athens, the seat of learning, 
to the dwellers of Corinth, the seat of base sensuality, 
and to the servants of Cesar's household, the seat of 
the rottenest politics. It was because he was capable of 
doing more than one thing that he was willing to con- 
fine himself to one thing. His training was first broad 
and general and for that reason he could be narrow and 
specific. He was specializing in the religion of Jesus 
and made that work the supreme purpose of his life. 

Because Paul could do this one thing, which he had 
chosen as his supreme purpose, there were two subor- 
dinate propositions that had to he settled first. The 
settlement of these was essential for a proper prepara- 
tion towards the realization of his life purpose. Let us 
look at these. 

Paul says " forgetting those things which are be- 
hind." Always forgetting must be a part of learning. 
Sometimes forgetting is the most difficult part of the 
learning process. Do you recall that word which you 
learned to spell incorrectly ? What a time you did have 
to forget the wrong spelling and learn the correct spell- 
ing ! Or you may have associated the wrong name with 
a certain person and you have found it exceedingly 
difficult to forget that wrong association and fix the 
right name with this person. 

What were some of these things Paul had to forget? 
Once he prided himself that he was circumcised on the 
eighth day ; that he was 6f the stock of Israel, a Hebrew 
of the Hebrews ; as touching the law, the strictest of 
the Pharisees ; concerning zeal, persecuting the church, 



and as for the righteousness of the law he was blame- 
less. Now, however, Paul was no longer taking pride 
in these matters. No longer does he claim his own 
righteousness as a recommendation to God ; no longer 
does he boast that he deserves salvation because of his 
keeping the law ; no longer is it sufficient to say that he 
is a Hebrew, a son of the promise ; no longer does he 
trust in his pride and misguided zeal. All these things 
of which he once boasted he is ready to renounce if he 
may win Christ. With him the past must perish with 
the past. He was ready to forget the past. The present 
was upon him. In this he must move and act, looking 
to the things ahead. 

Yes, we like Paul need to learn the art of forgetting. 
Blessed is that man who has a good memory, and thrice 
blessed is he who has a good " forgettery." Blessed is 
the man who can forget an unkindness shown him and 
think no more of it. Blessed is the man who can speak 
the kind word, can do the kind act, can give a hundred 
dollars for the cause of Christ and forget all about it, 
who remembers the many kindnesses shown by others 
and forgets all the slights that have come his way. As 
Paul was about to bend all his energies to the supreme 
purpose of his life he found it helpful to forget much, 
and so will you and I. 

A second condition which Paul found was to reach 
forth unto the things that were before him. " Stretch- 
ing " conveys the thought better. He saw something 
before him and he was stretching out for it. In for- 
getting he was giving up something, but at the same 
time he was reaching forward to more. The religion of 
Jesus is a religion of denial, but it gives its followers 
more and better things than it denies them. Paul had 
experienced this in his own life. Judaism had made 
him a zealot, persecuting those who differed from him. 
Christianity made him tolerant and ready to bring men 
into an experience with Jesus. In the religion of Jesus 
Paul found great gain. It was the making of him. 

Do you get the picture of the situation? A boy sees 
a red apple on the tree. He climbs into the tree, goes 
out on the limb, but even then he can not secure the 
coveted apple which hangs just out of his reach. He 
changes his position, views the apple from every angle 
and finally finds one place from which he can land the 
prize but then only by stretching to the uttermost. 

Paul sees a prize greater than an apple and he is will- 
ing to stretch himself to the uttermost to secure it.. He 
looked to the thing ahead. He knew the present; the 
past was gone forever. He ceased to live in the past. 
He was ready to serve the present. He was living in 
the present. When does one grow old? When he 
lives in the past. When does one become less useful? 
When he sees his ideal in the past. When does a man 
shelve himself? When he becomes doubtful of the 
present and casts overboard hope for the future. Those 
who do, those who win, those who inspire are the men 
who are not forgetful of the glory of the past, who ac- 
knowledge the achievements of the present and who 
are optimistic of the future. Such a man was Paul. 
For him the best was still to come. He was struggling 
to the uttermost to claim that best. J. E. M. 



Three Requisites to Church Prosperity 

The three great characteristics of the life of the 
early church, which were pointed out in a recent edi- 
torial, are so vital to the church needs of today that 
we ought to review them often. They are basic ele- 
ments of power. Where they live the Holy Spirit 
lives. 

The first is a sense of mission, a conviction that the 
Gospel of Christ is the power of God unto salvation 
from every ill which afflicts mankind, and that the 



church is the trustee and herald of that Gospel, solemn- 
ly charged and graciously privileged to give it to all 
men. It is the compelling urge of a life-and-death 
responsibility. 

The, second is the joy of sacrificial service, the 
knowledge, verified by experience, that the supreme 
satisfaction is that of bringing blessing, to others. It 
is that fine sense of values which makes the chance to 
have a part in this blessed enterprise outweigh all ma- 
terial losses and physical hardships. It is appreciation 
of spiritual treasures above all the satisfactions of the 
flesh. 

The third is unity of that higher and deeper type 
which has its basis in love of truth, and transcends all 
differences of temperament and inherited prejudice. 
Associated factors are charity in judgment of others 
and high appreciation of all sincere seeking to know 
and do the will of God. It is that unity of the spirit 
which holds together in the bond of peace, circumci- 
sion and uncircumcision, conservative and progressive 
and all like variations in the mind's approach to ques- 
tions of faith and practice. 

If these qualities are in {he church and abound there, 
they will make it neither barren nor unfruitful in the 
knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ and in the exten- 
sion of his rule in the world life of today. 



Room That Is Not Emptiness 

" The slogan, ' Room at the top,' falls flat unless it 
is reen forced by the suspicion that it is exceedingly hot 
at the bottom. Civilization is now exhausting itself up- 
on the effort to make the bottom comfortable." 

But it will not succeed. It will not succeed in making 
the bottom permanently comfortable. It may succeed 
in exhausting itself trying to do this foolish thing. 

Because the bottom is the level of cheap pleasures, 
of sweets that soon get bitter, of rewards that disap- 
point. The atmosphere is murky with the foul damp 
of carnality. Life there may be jolly but not joyous. 
It may be exciting but not satisfying. It is mostly 
physical. What mentality there is in it is of low grade. 
It thinks not the thoughts of God but the thoughts of 
brutish men. And the human spirit can never rest in 
that kind of life, for it was made for higher things and 
is bound to hunger after them. 

At the top the air is clean and life's pleasures leave 
no sting. For these are found in the loftier heights of 
spirit enjoyment. Here thinking is a perennial delight, 
for there are no conscience lashings in it, but only the 
searchings of the purposes of God. Only the quest of 
truth, to know which and to choose which and to feel 
which working its way into the very vitals of the soul, 
is the quintessence of living, because it is the entwining 
of the tendrils of the human spirit about the strong 
stock of Infinite Wisdom and Love. 

There is more than " room " at the top. Peace and 
joy are there. ^^^^^^^^^ 

Why It Is So Slow 

It is a good thing to remember that Rome was not 
built in a day and that while a mushroom springs up in 
the night it takes many years to grow an oak. 

Reflections of this sort may save us from undue 
discouragement as well as from the temptation to build 
superficially rather than solidly, in our efforts for 
Kingdom extension. But good things may be overdone 
until they become bad things, as when the truth just 
cited is used as a shield to cover our own laziness. 

God is not particularly fond of slow progress. He is 
establishing his rule in human life as fast as he can, in 
view of the obstacles in the way, chief of which obsta- 
cles is the slowness of the human heart to believe in and 
lay hold of the possibilities at hand. 



50 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



CONTRIBUTORS' FORUM 



Back to Earth 



BY H. A. BRANDT 



Places 

BY W. J. SWIGART 
(Suggested by " places " in outline of S. S. Lesson Study) 
Docs "Place" play part in men's affairs? 
Or figure aught in God's designs? 
Are there upon this great, wide world 
Some spots which sacred import bear? 
Are shrines but myths, and sacredncss 
But false and foolish sentiment? 

The universal heart responds 
That shrines exist; and greatest things 
And truest things are those that live 
In holy 'membrance kept: that place 
Commemorates events because 
Events first sanctified the place- 
Some mighty act, some conflict great, 
Some happy scene, some glorious fact, 
Some thing has sanctified the spot 
And made it more than common ground. 
This virtue, then, we all concede 
To many spots on earth belongs. 

To Plymouth Rock and Jamestown's site; 
To Valley Forge and Gettysburg; 
Potomac's shrine, Mount Vernon's tomb, 
And Shackamaxon's peaceful elm, 
Belongs this charm that draws men on 
And halts their feet and makes them stand 
With venerative air and mien, 
Impressed with sense of mystic spell. 

Or, limit it to smaller realms;— 

Is there to each of us some spot 

That mem'ry holds in sweet embrace? 

Some country place by mountain side 

Or hill's bright top or hallowed vale, 

By shady trees or quiet stream;— 

The cottage low, or humble home, 

Closed round with vines where we were born, 

And played our childhood days away 

In light and love of parents' care; 

When summer days were bright and long. 

And years were not so fleeting bent 

And quickly gone as now they are: 

When seasons gave us time their charms 

To know and all their gracious gifts 

Enjoy before they quick were gone; 

And freedom's frolics reigned supreme. 

■ Awake, my memory: And live 
Again, ye scenes and visions dear, 
And witness bear in spite of all 
That places sacred do exist. 
What would we give tonight to walk 
Those ways, behold those scenes again, 
And stand uncovered at those shrines I 

And then those Bethel spots— beneath 
Some tree, or rock, or open sky 
With stars alone to witness bear: 
When stones were piled to testify 
That God was near. 

When conflicts deep 
Were wrestled out, and vict'ry won: — 
But not because we overcame — 
Because our hearts surrendered there. 

The cemetery's marbled walks; 

The little mound! Aye, there it is. 

Ah, met Ah, me! Life's busy cares 

Have pressed too hard a while, and left 

Some holy things almost forgot. 

Lay down the pen and tools of trade; 

Leave now the busy marts of toil; 

Turn from the restless throngs. Turn back, 

Review those scenes; bedew again 

That ground with tears. Turn back, turn back, 

My muse, hold here my truant thoughts — 

Lest we forget. Lest we forget. 

My soul says now, there are, there are 

The places sacred on this earth. 

Thou Bethlehem, thou Galilee, 
And Tabor's heights; Gethsemane, 
And Calv'ry's brow and Olivet I 
Come, draw thou near; speak not, nor heed 
Thou what thy fellow-man may say. 
Come, doff thy hat, remove thy shoes, 
Bow low thy head. Be silent now, 
Subdue thy soul, thou standest now 
On Holy Ground! Let God now speak. 
Huntingdon, Pa. 



Last of Seven Studies in an Argument with God 

Let it be imagined that the day of controversy be- 
tween the prophet Habakkuk and his God has drawn 
, toward its close. As the stars come out in the deepen- 
ing blue of the evening sky it is fitting to think back 
over the strenuous experiences of the day. Twice the 
daring prophet has stood and challenged God in con- 
troversy, and as many times Jehovah has answered 
well. Indeed, Jehovah has answered so fully and well 
that the prophet is beset with a new confusion and 
perplexity. To make the measure of the revelation 
full the controversy was followed by a majestic vision 
that filled the heavens with the glory of God. In one 
swiftly-moving scene there is fused a pageant of both 
the power and splendor of the invincible and eternal 
God. 

Throughout the controversy and the vision there 
runs a gleam of hope. The gleam of hope is the out- 
look for the righteous. For, although the wicked 
seem to triumph, it is but for the moment. Their 
pride and insatiable desire are unto them a virus of 
death. But in the midst of an evil world the righteous 
shall live, for his faithfulness shall be unto him a 
principle of life. 

As the glorious pageant of God sweeps by, and as 
the glow of the vision departs, the prophet comes 
back to earth. There can not be a birth of truth with- 
out some after-pains. Therefore, what of the prophet, 
whose insistence virtually obliged Jehovah to reveal 
something of the ultimate reach of his plans? Behold, 
here is the prophet who saw the splendor of the God 
from Teman, and he sits and weeps as one over- 
whelmed with pity and grief. For, truly, he is shaken 
with the sorrows of the man who would know too 
much. 

" I heard and my body trembled, 
My lips quivered at the voice; 
Rottenness entered into my bones, and I trembled in 

my place; 
Because I must wait quietly for the day of trouble, 
For the coming up of the people that invadeth us." 

A merciful God had planned to spare the prophet 
the pain that would come from the knowledge of the 
punishments about to be visited upon the people of 
Judah. But the prophet was insistent, and would not 
have it so. Wherefore the prophet, who had prayed 
for the speedy coming of the judgments due his peo- 
ple, brought upon himself the pains of the man who 
would know too much. For he that would snatch 
away the secret of the future, must sooner or later 
come back to earth and quietly await the coming of 
the day of trouble. 

Well might the prophet Habakkuk weep and 
tremble ! On the eastern horizon there loomed the 
spectre of the terrible Chaldeans. The vision promised 
that these ancient vandals would receive an appropriate 
judgment, but, until it was accomplished, the Chaldeans 
were free to terrorize the earth. Faced by the knowl- 
edge of the things to be, the prophet turns in his sor- 
row to a contemplation of what was in store for the 
pleasant land of his birth. And how dear to man is 
the sacred spot where he was born ! And how often 
men have sought out in a reverent mood the humble 
place of their birth, in order to live over in sacred 
memory the scenes and experiences of childhood ! 
Imagine, then, the exquisite pains of the man obliged 
to contemplate the ruthless destruction of his old 
home ! 

Now the old home of Habakkuk was a beautiful 
place. He did not live in a mansion, but his home 
was beautiful, in the sense that its surroundings were 
as beautiful as God could make them. The prophet 
had lived much in the great out-of-doors, and he 
loved best the familiar things of the open fields. As 
he dreamed again of his old home he remembered 
the pleasant canopy of the thick-foliaged fig tree, 
under which, as a boy, he had eaten luscious, fully- 
ripened figs, sweet as honey. And then, there were 
the vines. In his father's vineyard he had pruned 
and trained their pliant canes. He knew each vine, 
and when and where the best of the fruit could be 
found. He wept to see in imagination the beautiful 



vineyards of the land of his youth trampled down by 
the fierce horsemen from Chaldea. Alas, too, for the 
gray-green slopes covered by the ancient olive 
orchards, and for the neglected fields and the scat- 
tered flocks. Indeed, it would be hard to find a more 
poignantly suggestive passage than Habakkuk's la- 
ment for the things made sacred by the memories of 
youth, but soon to be ruthlessly broken down or de- 
stroyed by the wicked Chaldeans : 

"For though the fig tree shall not flourish. 
Neither shall fruit be in the vines; 
The labor of the olive shall fail, 
And the fields shall. yield no food; 
The flock shall be cut off from the fold, 
And there shall be no herd in the stalls." 

Truly, the pageant of God is past, the vision spent, 
and the prophet back to earth ! For what shall a man 
do in preparation for the coming of the day of trouble, 
and what shall he plan against the coming up of the 
people that invadeth us ? What though the righteous 
shall live in his faithfulness, what of the days of 
peril and sorrow that He immediately ahead? How 
deep are the sorrows of the man who would know 
too much ! 

Then there was kindled in the soul of the prophet 
a double measure of the indomitable will that had 
driven him forth at the first to challenge the ways 
of God. Would it be better to share ill treatment 
with the people of God than to enjoy the pleasures of 
the wicked for a season ? Would it be better to value 
the reproaches of God's anointed above the treasures 
of the empires of this world? Surely, in the end he 
would stand with the great prophet who chose God's 
sure and eternal recompense of reward. Thus, rising 
above the pain and despair born of the immediate 
perils incident to a Chaldean invasion, the prophet 
who knew too much took again the pledge of faith : 

"Yet I will rejoice in Jehovah, 
I will joy in the God of my salvation. 
Jehovah, the Lord, is my strength; 
And he maketh my feet like hinds' feet, 
And will make me to walk upon my high places." 

La Verne, Calif. 



The Year's Outlook 

BY M. G. BRUMBAUGH 
(A Message Broadcastcd^by Radio in Philadelphia, Jan. 2, 1924) 

We are walking into the untrodden ways of a new 
year. No one knows whither the way leads, nor the 
goal at its end. *But one can at least wish for all a 
very happy and helpful journey, and one can also, 
in the light of his past trips, gain some hint of the 
things he may see if he will only face the future wide- 
eyed and open-minded. This is true, because there 
are great underlying laws, set by Almighty God, 
which, even when the years change, change not. But 
the vision of these laws changes because we change 
our point of view. We are different. His laws are 
not. 

"Truth is eternal, but her effluence, 
With endless change is fitted to the hour; 
Her mirror is turned forward to reflect 
The promise of the future, not the past. 
He who would win the name of truly great 
Must understand his own age and the next, 
And make the present ready to fulfil 
Its prophecy, and with the future merge 
Greatly and peacefully, as wave with wave." 

Human life is thus made up of certain fixed and 
of other changing elements. These changes mark 
progress when they are expressed in harmony with 
the eternal purpose. They mark failure when they 
are expressed in opposition to the eternal purpose. 

Obviously, then, one's first duty upon entering the 
new year is to comprehend and accept the divine pur- 
pose for men, for nations, for civilization, which pur- 
pose is to understand one's qrgin, one's destiny and 
one's duty. We need just now a deeper appreciation 
of the sacredness and dignity of human life. When 
once we shall have achieved this there will be re- 
stored to us that security to life and to property for 
which our forefathers fought in the Revolutionary 
War, which was secured in the Constitution of these 
United States and is now menaced by the crime wave 
sweeping unstemmed over the country. More im- 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



51 



portant than our relations to foreign powers, more 
important than our fiscal policy, more important than 
the high cost of living, more important than the labor, 
situation or the agricultural situation, is the need for 
a return to simple faith, to respect for law, to honesty 
of purpose, to industry and to frugality, to Christian 
living. 

Let our schools, our churches, our homes, our press 
unite in a nation-wide campaign to set these higher 
virtues of the soul securely in our youth — indeed, in 
our present generation of mature citizenry, if we 
are to have in 1924 the forward look and the enduring 
good. 

We have developed in this republic a menace ful in- 
dividuality. Trust and cooperation are lacking. Each 
is set to do for himself. It is a time of greed and 
cunning. We have forgotten that America is a social 
compact, in which what hurts one hurts all; what 
helps one, helps all. We have likewise forgotten 
that the only enduring good of individuals or of na- 
tions is the good they give, not get; the good they 
bestow, not the good they receive. The altruistic soul 
of democracy sickens and pales because of our selfish- 
ness. This is expressed by one who said, " Of course, 
I am paid more than I am worth, but I propose to get 
while the getting is good. " 

As a necessary sequence to this vicious view of 
one's duty arises the tendency to blame, to censure, 
to criticise, to decry, when one ought really to have 
patience and lofty tolerance. We readily and glibly 
and unfairly find fault with our public officials — na- 
tional, State and municipal — when, as a matter of 
fact, it is not infrequently true that, as Shakespeare 
says : 

"The fault, dear Brutus, lies not within our states, 
But in ourselves that we are underlings." 

Let us walk the new ways of the dawning year with 
resolute purpose to do more for others, to cultivate 
increasing charity, and to adventure boldly into the 
all-too-untrodden ways of self-examination and of 
personal introspection. 

There are tokens of a finer year for us if we will 
thus recast our lives, heed the lessons of yesteryear, 
and turn confidently to things of our kind that beckon 
and call to us. 

This republic needs, even more than it wants, abid- 
ing peace. Whatever promotes that national need is 
worthy of your hearty support. It is quite evident 
that a World Court, in which nations may adjust in- 
evitable differences by the lofty appeal to justice, 
not to the brutal appeal of force, is promotive of this 
national need. Therefore, let us unite , in 1924 to 
secure, under proper safeguards, the entrance of our 
country into a World Court. We should, indeed, be- 
cause of "our commanding place in the family of na- 
tions, not only enter but constrain others to enter such 
a judicial body. 

While we are thinking of tax reduction let us also 
think of tax cancellation. The sooner we pay our 
national debt the sooner we will bring to pass a 
predictable and enlarging future for our great in- 
dustries and for their attendant aide — our great 
transportation lines. It is not a good moral example 
to individuals to delay the payment of a debt incurred 
in the recent cruel, senseless, needless, useless war. 
It is scarcely fair to pass this debt in full to genera- 
tions yet unborn when, if we were all industrious and 
frugal in this crisis, we could readily cancel a large 
part of this benumbing national debt. 

Agriculture is an ancient, honorable and necessary 
industry. The farmer's welfare is the welfare of all. 
How does he face the incoming year? For the wheat 
he sold for one dollar in July, 1914, he now receives 
one dollar and twenty cents. For the corn he sold for a 
dollar in July, 1914, he now receives one dollar and 
two cents; for part of a steer he sold for one dollar 
in July, 1914, he now receives one dollar and six 
cents. He is selling the major products of the farm 
at substantially pre-war prices. What can be said 
of the commodities he must purchase now? 

For the sugar he bought for one dollar in July, 
1914, he now pays two dollars and twenty-nine cents. 
For the coal he bought for a dollar in July,- 1914, he 
now pays two dollars and one cent. For the iron or 
steel and the products thereof he bought for a dollar 



in July, 1914, he now pays one dollar and sixty-one 
cents. He fs buying the major needs of the farm at 
post-war prices, which prices are almost double those 
of 1914. 

It is as much the duty of the city dweller as of the 
rural farmer to right this injustice and put the basic 
industry of the country upon a sound economic basis. 

Other problems loom high. Time forbids . their 
notice. We ought, we must, I hope we will, face 
these problems promptly and intelligently. Delay is 
dangerous. It is an exploded fallacy that " God Al- 
mighty takes care of fools and Americans. " These 
things will not right themselves. We are virile and 
resourceful. We can settle them. They will not 
settle themselves. We might as well sit down in the 
center of a pasture, with a pail between our knees, 
and wait for the cows to walk up to be milked. It 
is not likely to occur. 

Holding, as I do, an abiding confidence in the spirit 
of our government and in the sanity of our citizenry, 
I look hopefully forward. I call all lovers of the 
nation and of the people to a year of earnest, active, 
self-sacrificing service, and devout worship, confident 
that thus and thus only will we have the happy new 
year I so heartily wish you. " God bless us all, every 
one. " ..+.. 

The Youth Movement of the World 

BY D. W. KURTZ 

Mr. Sherwood Eddy gave a stirring address at 
the Student Volunteer Convention at Indianapolis on 
the above subject. He gave his testimony, based upon 
his many trips to forty nations, and especially his 
recent trips, that there is a youth movement covering 
the earth. What is the meaning of this movement? 

It is essentially a movement of revolt. The younger 
generation is rebelling against everything that is old. 
There is absolutely nothing left that is not attacked. 
Every philosophy of life and reality; every theory of 
ethics and religion ; every ideal of economics and poli- 
tics ; and every human custom is being criticised and 
overthrown. Every social institution— the home, mar- 
riage, the church, the state, as well as the dignity and 
worth of human life itself, is questioned. Nothing 
is left that is sacred to the revolutionary spirit. All 
authority is questioned and all canons of the past are 
critically scrutinized. 

I do not recall a single sentence of that great ad- 
dress of Mr. Eddy, but I have been meditating upon 
this fact. What is its significance? 

Certainly there are possibilities of good in this move- 
ment. It is better to be critical than stagnant. An 
inquiring age is also a hopeful age. Stagnation means 
death. Growth is the first law of life. Growth im- 
plies change. The person who is opposed to change 
has very little faith in the eternal verities. Browning 
said, " He that is sated, is fated. " Real truth, and 
real values, have nothing to fear from the gaze of an 
enquiring spirit. The more a diamond is polished the 
brighter it becomes. That which is founded upon the 
rock needs not to fear the rain or the storm. The 
institutions and dogmas that are fixed are not secure. 
Change and growth are normal to the spirit of the 
universe. 

The present spirit of unrest is due to the wrong of 
the past. Humanity never learned the lesson of 
democracy and human brotherhood, so the world was 
organized on the basis of pagan selfishness and 
autocracy. This world is still largely pagan. Some 
of it is Christian in name, but even this behaves most 
of the time as pagan. The youth movement of re- 
bellion will not endure the false ideals in politics, 
economics, social and racial relations, and religion. 
All past authority is questioned. The present unrest 
is the hunger for reality. 

This new movement is to be welcomed, in so far 
as it insists upon the acid test of truth. The criticism 
of everything is inevitable. The Bible could not es- 
cape. Ever since 1835 the Bible has been under fire. 
But the more it was studied, the more wonderful it 
became. Christ was criticised ; but he lalone stands 
supreme in this day, unblemished in the crucible of 
the war. Politics has been examined and found want- 
ing; the industrial system has been diagnosed and has 
been found to be the gangrene that destroys the race. 



Our social ideals have been exposed, and they reveal 
false doctrines of racial superiority that are wholly 
pagan. There is much in this* movement that is full 
of promise as a deliverance from the slavery of the past. 

But there is great risk in this movement. Revolu- 
tions are youth movements, lacking experience, and 
therefore balance and good judgment. They are born 
of passion and revolt, hence lack appreciation of the 
values of the past. Success easily intoxicates the 
leaders, and the movement becomes superficial, ma- 
terialistic and selfish. The revolution which starts 
from the vision of the unseen, usually ends with a 
greed for the tangible. This revolt of youth will be 
a menace unless the Spirit of Christ dominate it com- 
pletely. 

No problem is solved unless it is solved right. 
Mere revolt is no guarantee of getting any nearer the 
true solution than the former condition. We must 
overcome evil with the good. The task of the hour is 
to capture the leadership of youth for Jesus Christ. 
This is the supreme strategy for the future welfare 
of the race. 

We need a new type of leadership to meet this need ; 
a new type, as compared with what we had; not new 
in another sense, because Christ demonstrated the 
true type, (1) The leadership of the future must 
recognize facts. It must understand this human re- 
volt against the past. (2) The new leadership must 
understand that this movement can not be crushed or 
halted; it must be directed. (3) The methods of 
leadership can not be dogmatic, for the whole revolt 
is against dogmatism— in all the institutions and 
philosophies of the past. (4) The leader must know 
reality, and help others to find reality. (5) We must 
establish authority, but not the authority of custom, 
or dogmas. The future will regard only the authority 
of reality, of the true, the good and the beautiful. 

(6) The leader must have great faith. His own faith 
is so grounded upon the foundations of truth and 
reality, that he does not fear to face the scrutiny of an 
enquiring age, too long deceived by false prophets. 

(7) The future leader must really lead men into the 
presence of Christ himself, that men may know him, 
and not merely about him. He must lead men into 
the experience of the abundant life, so they can know 
for themselves. 

The youth movement of revolt is on. Christ alone 
stands out as a challenge to obedience. All else is 
found wanting. He alone can bring order out of 
chaos. He alone can direct this restless life into the 
channels of constructive achievement. He alone can 
direct the spirit of man so that human institutions 
will be a blessing rather than a tyranny that curses. 
Can the church forget herself long enough to give 
the Living Christ to a seething world? The hour of 
our visitation is here. Our humanity is on a storm- 
tossed sea ; there is but one Pilot who can calm the 
sea. We need not defend Christ, but preach Christ. 
We need no apologies for him, but more illumination. 
We need a race of prophets to reveal the Christ to 
men. He will draw to himself all men who hunger 
for reality. 

McPherson, Kan. 



Chief Seats and Their Attainment 

BY JOSEPH D. REISH 

There is within most men a natural desire to be in 
positions where authority and influence can be wielded. 
In many instances that desire is dormant and not out- 
standing, there being a lack of opportunity for its 
development. But that there is a fascination attached 
to the thought of being a leader, upon the part of the 
average normal man, is recognized. On the whole it is 
a worthy desire, but the effect upon the careless man 
often is to lead him into dangerous adventures. The 
tendency is for him to lose his stability — his balance — 
when his efforts succeed. 

The Master taught some valuable lessons on the 
desire for preferment, that have not as yet been fully 
realized or approved by the world at large. He made 
it plain that man is to desire success only in so far as 
he can really succeed and still remain true to Him and 
his cause. In a careful analysis of his teaching along 

(Continued on Page 5*) 



52 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



More Impressions From the Indianapolis 
Convention 

BY. W, 0. BECKNER 
I learned that the discussions were along the same 
lines in most of the other groups. The general pro- 
gram continued over Sunday; then, on Monday after- 
noon, a second period of discussion was given, a two- 
hour session, in which the same or other problems were 
taken up, with a conscious effort to come to some con- 
clusion. In the group that I attended on Monday, the 
war question was raised. Various opinions were ex- 
pressed by the students (it was understood that those 
present other than students should keep still until called 
upon to speak), some favoring the old-time " prepared- 
ness " and others favoring some lawful means for 
settling disputes. 

In. some of the other groups the war question waxed 
rather warm. The matter was faced squarely, with the 
view of determining what students should do about it if 
war should arise in our land. There were those who 
urged a "pacifist" attitude— some who saw good in 
the physical drills of the R. O. T. C, and some who 
ranged their attitude around " education " as a means 
of prevention. 

On Tuesday morning, the last day of the convention, 
on the.main platform of the convention, opportunity 
was given for students themselves to discuss the war 
question further. Four different positions were sup- 
ported by four different students: (1) The best way 
to prevent war is to be thoroughly prepared for its 
coming. Then no hostile power will dare to attack us. 
(2) The best way to prevent war is to educate our 
people to settle their. troubles in some other way. "With- 
out education to a higher ideal, war will continue. (3) 
The best immediate way to guarantee world peace is 
to support the League of Nations. Wars come of such 
causes as are inevitable ; war is simply lawlessness ram- 
pant in an effort to crush out the opponent, and its 
after-effects are always worse than the original first 
cause; the League of Nations is an effort to establish 
some machinery which shall be in existence when the 
inevitable conflicts arise, and to which nations may go 
for lawful and peaceful adjustment of their troubles; 
the United States and Canada have had almost num- 
berless differences in the past one hundred years, but 
never a war; extend that principle to the world. (4) 
If war should arise, let there be a body of young men, 
students, who shall utterly refuse to take any part in it. 
Follow Christ and let Caesar do his worst if he dare. 
Then no nation will dare declare war, knowing that her 
young men refuse to mobilize for it. 

Something like these were the arguments advanced 
in defense of the different positions. Then the entire 
audience was given an opportunity to express its 
preference for the different positions. The newspaper 
reporters present gave out their opinions of the vote, 
but as I stood by the platform and 'looked over the 
audience, it was clear that the third proposal had by far 
the largest number of supporters. But it was stated 
that support of position number 4, for example, might 
be expressed, while at the same time adhering to num- 
ber 2 or number 3. It was evident that number 1 got 
a very light vote of support. 

But what of it? Here were thousands of young men 
and women, thinking together on some of the biggest 
problems that face the human race today. They were 
earnest and sincere. They were serious. Tomorrow 
they will be in places of leadership in human society, 
and upon them will fall the duty to guide humanity in- 
to ways of peace and happiness. And here they sat to- 
gether, under religious leadership, preparing for those 
coming duties, lifting up their problems before God and 
his Christ, our Savior, anxious to be directed aright in 
their thought and attitudes. How significant it is! 

It seemed to me that I could discern two kinds of 
attitude. One was that of the analyst, the student who 
lays out a problem into its parts and says " Here it is, 
there it is," etc.. The other was that of the student who 
is not content to stop with analysis, but who has what 
we may call the " curative " attitude of mind, the chap 
who says. " Yes. I sec the problem in all its parts, and 
now what can we do about it?*' He goes at it to reme- 
dy the situation. It was these latter who, it seemed to 



me, were in the majority by all kinds of odds at the 
Indianapolis convention. Doubtless there were those 
there who had a good time and saw some old acquaint- 
ances and heard some good speeches, and who, when 
they get back to their schools, will give scant thought 
to doing any differently from what they did before ; 
who will be just as selfish and as apathetic to the burn- 
ing human needs, and just as contemptible in their 
treatment of those of other races. 

But there were thousands who have gone back to 
their colleges with new vision of a world made better 
through the living of the life that Jesus Christ would 
live if he were now set down into their shoes and in 
their environment; those whose hearts are tuned in a 
little better to catch the cry of distress from a needy 
fellow-creature, no matter from where it comes, and to 
find in the giving of personal life to relieve that dis- 
tress the communion with the Lord in his sufferings 
and his character. 

Chicago, III. ►-#-. 

What Is Ambition? 

BY ELIZA POPE VAN DYNE 
"Fling away ambition: by that sin fell the angels." 

Like a bright and many-sided star, ambition points 
high and to the left and right and in between and up 
and down. Wherever human eye can see a different 
thing, or heart grow hungry with the sight of sweet 
contentment in another, or brain leap out to catch the 
gift some other uses to advantage, there's ambition. 
It means desire ; it means hope ; it means need. Some- 
where ahead lies the necessary thing for the body or 
the heart or the soul of the man or woman. 

It is not alone a material thing — this word, this 
quality — but a subtle and a steady heartache for a better 
thing than that now present — whether money for a 
home and neighborhood, or power to rise from employe 
to employer, or talent to mingle with gifted men and 
women, or personality for, friends, or the ability to love 
your brother, to live in harmony, to understand, to 
pray. 

The financial giant has fought no harder for his 
kingship in that sphere, has dreamed no fairer dreams, 
has lost no less sleep, than the troubled spirit hunting 
for his peace. The passionate artist, starving in his 
garret, learning day by day, color by color, stroke by 
stroke, has no more tedious task nor greater dream of 
fame, than has the lonely man longing first. of all for 
love and friendship. 

Ambition is ambition with the magnate, inspiration 
with the poet, exaltation with the saint ; yet, with all, a 
driving force that carries them away from self toward 
something greater. Let it be for personal comfort, self- 
ish satisfaction, nevertheless the thing is done. Let a 
man build a shoe or a motor car or a kind of bread, 
cheaper than his cleverest competitor, not for charity, 
not for humanity, but for self, yet the good is all about 
him just the same. Let a woman become lovely in her 
manner, dainty in her dress, charming in appearance, 
perhaps alone for the glory of the feeling, and all about 
her other women see and take on a dream of beauty, 
and care and interest spring to life with that ambition. 
Let men or women seek their peace, their meditation, 
their moderation, the moral or the spiritual quality 
necessary for their inner being, and somewhere some 
one sees and envies, and locks his door to be alone and 
gain that great thing. 

Fling it away! There you have the sluggard, the 
dope fiend, the failure. There you have the slouch in 
dress, unlovely to the sight, the city ; there you have the 
bitter tongue, the heart resentful, the weakening soul of 
a being. 

As it is with an individual, so it is with a city, a na- 
tion, a world. When you take away the dream, the 
goal, you take away the very spirit of the man or the 
nation, and in the place of that vital living body, going 
on, looking up, achieving, daring, succeeding, you have 
a stolid thing to deal with, without response, without 
pride, without action — dead. As a man must eat for 
the sake of his body, love for the glory of his heart, so 
must he aspire for the good of his very existence. 

The man or woman with something always needed 
ahead carries the eager step, the bright eye, the zest for 
doing. Men or women who have nothing more to 



desire, as they see it, drag along; neither worthy of 
^themselves nor a joy for their fellows. 

Always, whatever the wealth attained, or the fame 
achieved, or the talents developed, or the love secured, 
there is something greater for the human heart and 
soul. Let all these things be invested in the same hu- 
man being, and he may be far from another goal of the 
spiritual field, the happy field, the peaceful field. 

Washington, D. C. 



The Foreign Missions Conference of North 
America 

BY H. H. NYE 

The Foreign Missions Conference of North America 
held its thirty-first annual session at Atlantic City, N. J., 
Jan. 8-11, 1924. This conference differed from the Indian- 
apolis Convention in that the latter was an inspirational 
meeting for present and prospective mission workers, while 
the former was rather a gathering of representatives of 
the various Foreign Mission Boards of the evangelical de- 
nominations of North America, to discuss the problems 
involved in the administration of missions. 

The delegate body comprised 207 members. There were 
147 corresponding members present. * These 354 people 
represented fifty-six mission boards and societies. The 
Mission Board of the Church of the Brethren was repre- 
sented by delegates through Brethren H. H. Nye and C. 
D. Bonsack; by corresponding members through I. E. 
Oberholtzer, Elizabethtown, Pa., returned missionary to 
China; N. A. Seese, Bridgewater, Va., returned missionary 
to China; and Eliza B. Miller, Waterloo, Iowa, returned 
missionary to India. 

The outstanding leaders of the conference, in the judg- 
ment of the writer, of course, among many others, were : 
Dr. William I. Chamberlain, representing the Dutch Re- 
formed Church and serving as chairman of the Committee 
of Reference and Counsel; Dr. Fennell P. Turner, secretary 
of the conference and of the Committee of Reference and 
Counsel; Dr. Robert E. Speer, the man who always brings 
a rich Christian message; Dr. Charles R. Watson, president 
of the University of Cairo, Egypt, and therefore a strong 
Christian influence in the Mohammedan world; and Dr. 
A. L. Warnshuis, of London, traveling secretary of the In- 
ternational Missionary Council, and therefore strongly in- 
formed as to the varied conditions of the different mis- 
sion fields of the world. 

The following topics comprised the major part of the 
discussions: The exaltation of Christ at the home base; 
the hindering influences on the field of overdenominational- 
ism; the religious education of children on the foreign field; 
economic losses incurred in Japan through the recent earth- 
quake disaster, involving building and equipment; the im- 
provement of our missionary publications; cooperation in 
Latin-American missions ; marshaling the home churches 
for the more effective support of foreign missions ; the in? 
crease and improvement of Christian literature on the field; 
and the problem of framing and effectively employing 
church finance budgets. 

Dr. Robert Speer closed the convention by a strong 
Christian message on "The Deeper Fruitages qf the Mis- 
sionary Movement." He expressed a great and stirring ap- 
peal that "the rootage and the fruitage shall be the 
Christ. He is the Lord of all. He must become All in all." 

A few personal reactions might be stated. Of course, 
it is always undesirable to hear some messages which seem 
to purport that this world may be changed through human 
effort without due recognition of the Christ ; while, on the 
other hand, it is just as refreshing to hear in the same con- 
ference men with the Christ-centered message. It was very in- 
teresting to hear Dean Hatanaka, of Japau, Professor 
Yohan Masih, of India, and Dr. Tsu, of China, declare 
in bold terms what Jesus Christ means to the chang- 
ing Orient. It is also encouraging to know that there is 
a growing world sentiment in favor of expanding missions, 
and that the forces to do the work are better organized 
than ever. Dr. Warnshuis told plainly that some of the 
poverty-stricken sections of Europe a. e giving more than 
ever for missions, in spite of their dire need. It made one 
feel that in wealthy America there may be many who are 
not giving of their plenty, while the simple peasant of 
foreign lands is giving out of his need. The spiritual note 
of the conference rang true. The conference was inter- 
spersed again and again with fitting and appropriate songs 
and voluntary prayers. Dr. J. Lovell Murray, a pastor 
ol note and keen devotion, daily led in special devotions 
for a half hour at noon. 

It is of interest to all of us that Bro. Bonsack was 
elected as a member of the Committee of Reference and 
Counsel, the executive committee of thirty-six members. 
It will be a rare opportunity for him to mingle and serve 
with these men of large vision and Christian experience. 

We were very grateful for the opportunity of getting 
in touch with these men of service and drawing from their 
rich storehouse of experience and knowledge. May God 
richly bless and use .his own to forward his work and 
extend his Kingdom, is our prayer. 

Elizabethtown, Pa. 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



53 



ANNUAL BtBLE INSTITUTE, LA VERNE COLLEGE 
FEB. 3 TO 10, 1924 

Sunday, T"eb. 3. 9:45, Sunday-school. 11:00, Sermon. — 
Edgar Rothrock, 2:30, Joint Young People's Conference. 
6:00, Christian Workers' Society. 7:00, Sermon.— M. S. 
Frantz. 

Monday, Feb. 4. 9:30, Chapel. 10: 10, Home Missions.— 
Edgar Rothrock. 11:05, Foreign Missions! — J- B. Em- 
nicrt. 1:55, Address. — Jacob Funk. 2:50, Religious Edu- 
cation. — Harrison Frantz. 7:30, Fourfold Need of Boys and 
Girls. — H. A. Brubakcr. 8:15, Program, Men's Glee Club. 

Tuesday, Feb. 5. 9:30, Chapel. 10:10 to 12, Ladies' Aid 
Conference. 10 : 10 to 12, Organized-Men's Work. — A. O. Bru- 
haker. 1:55, Address. — Jacob Funk. 2:50, Religious Edu- 
cation. — Harrison Frantz. 7:30, Meeting Fourfold Need 
of Boys and Girls. — Edgar Rothrock. 8: 15, The Epistle of 
James. — Ellis M. Studebaker. 

Wednesday, Feb. 6. 9:30. Chapel. 10:10, The Doctrine 
of the Holy Spirit.— E. B. HofF. 11 : 05, Foreign Missions.— 
J. B. Emmert. 1:55, Progressive Revelation. — J. P. Dickey. 
2:50, Character Studies in the Life of Jesus. — E. B. Hoff. 
7:30, The Epistle of James.— Ellis M. Studebaker. 8:15, 
The Doctrine of Prayer.— E. B. Hoff. 

Thursday, Feb. 7. 9:30, Chapel. 10:10, The Doctrine of 
the Holy Spirit— E. B. Hoff. 11:05, Foreign Missions.— J. 



B. Emmert. 1:55, The Atonement.— J. P. Dickey. 2:50, 
Character Studies in the Life of Jesus.— E. B. Hoff. 7:30, 
The Epistle of James.— Ellis M. Studebaker. 8:15, The 
Doctrine of Prayer.— E. B. Hoff. 

Friday, Feb. 8. 9:30, Chapel. 10:10, The Doctrine of 
the Holy Spirit.— E. B. Hoff. 11:05, Foreign Missions.— J. 
B. Emmert. 1:55, Home Missions.— Edgar Rothrock. 2:50, 
Character Studies in the Life of Jesus.— E. B. Hoff. 7:30, 
The Epistle of James.— Ellis M. Studebaker. 8:15, The 
Doctrine of Prayer.— E. B. Hoff. 

Saturday. Feb. 9. 9:30. Chapel. 10:10, The Doctrine of 
the Holy Spirit. — E. B. Hoff. 1 : 55, Personal Evangelism. — 
Edgar Rothrock. 2:50, Character Studies in the Life of 
Jesus.— E. B. Hoff. 7:30, The Epistle of James.— Ellis 
M. Studebaker. 8:15, The Doctrine of Prayer.— E. B. 
Hoff. 

Sunday, Feb. 10. 9:45, Sunday-school. 11:00, Sermon. — 
E. B. Hoff. 6:00, Christian Workers' Society. 7:00, Ser- 
mon.— E. B. Hoff. 

General Information 

The day sessions will be held in the college chapel. 

The evening sessions will be held in the church. 

Lodging will be free. 

Meals in the dormitory will be 35 cents each. 

La Verne, Calif. E. M. Studebaker. 



Our Forward Movement 



Edited by J. W. Lear 

ural Director of the Council of Pr< 




Our Contributions 

Up to Jan. 1 our offerings totaled $259,503.95. Of 
this amount $218,894.18 has been designated for mis- 
sions, leaving $40,609.77 to be divided, in ratio of the 
askings, among seven Boards and Committees. 

If we should, in the two months remaining, give the 
average per month, which is $25,950.40, v.e would total 
for the fiscal year ending Feb. 28, $311,404.75, or 
nearly 70.5 per cent of our 1923 budget. 

The months representing the largest offerings are: 
June, $53,536.70; July, $31,250.68; November, $24,- 
620.54, and December, $44,312.40. The Conference of- 
fering furnished the impetus for June and July, while 
the emergency appeal brought the results in November 
and December. This fact reveals that our people have 
not, as individuals or as churches, worked out a system 
of stewardship and giving that will normally supply 
our needs, but that on the other hand we must have a 
special appeal to get the money necessary for the Gos- 
pel extension. 

It is good that these appeals bring certain results, but 
we should educate ourselves to give scripturally, and 
then the emergency appeal would be the exception 
rather than the rule. Again let me quote : " Freely ye 
have received, freely give '' ; " Upon the first day of the 
week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God 
has prospered him " ; " Not grudgingly, or of necessity : 
for God loveth a cheerful giver." 



Responses From Pastors 

In the November 3 issue of the Gospel Messenger 
a brief questionnaire was sent out to pastors of 
churches. Up to date forty-three replies have come in ; 
forty of these were from active pastors. Eighteen 
States are represented, with Illinois and Indiana lead- 
ing with six each. 

Statistics say that we have about 1,000 churches, and 
since I made the term pastor broad enough to cover 
the elder having oversight, I am wondering about the 
960 that made no reply. 

It may be that many of these do not subscribe for 
the church paper. Yet it is almost unbelievable that 
an elder or pastor of a congregation would not avail 
himself of the blessing that comes from the weekly 
visit of his own church paper. 

The last two questions were in substance : How 
can the Forward Movement help you? and, How can 
you. help the Forward Movement? These questions 
were asked with the very finest of intentions and with 
the most reciprocal and altruistic motives imaginable. 
Most of those answering felt they needed and really 
wanted help. I rather take it that those who read and 
answered not, felt that they were sufficient for these 
things. Even so, they should have contributed some- 



thing for the sake of others. It is easy to " pass by on 
the other side." It requires and always costs to play 
the part of the " good Samaritan." It always pays, 
however. 

We are ready to give due publicity, for the benefit 
of all, to any worthy suggestions that may come in. 
Suppose that all pastors join the " Helping Hand So- 
ciety," and through this page bless their fellows. The 
following is a yearly program sent in by a busy pastor : 

Church Program for 1923 and 1924, as Outlined by 
Committee 

September 
9. Anniversary Sunday. 
23. Rally Day. (Outside speaker of our church.) 
30. Installation and Consecration for Sunday-school per- 

' sonnel. October 

7. Communion. 

14. Demonstration and Promotion Day. 
21. Family Day. November 

29. Thanksgiving Service. Speaking and Social Features. 

December 
23. Pageant or Cantata. 

January, 1924 
1. New Year's Day Service, or if Watch Service on Dec. 
31. 
20. Missionary Day. February 
10.— 17. Father and Son Week, including banquet. 
10. Father and Son Day. 
17. Great Men's Day. 

March 
9. Lent begins. Lenten Sermon by outside speaker. 
City Man. 

April 

6. Communion. 

13. Palm Sunday. 

13. — 19, inc., Pre-Easter Services by Pastor. 
20. Easter Program and Decision Day. 
May 
Mothers and Daughters' Week, including banquet. 
Mothers' Day. . 

25. Decoration Day Service. 

June 
1. Children's Day. 

Conference Sunday. 
Educational Day. 
29. Independence Day Service. 
July 
4. Church Picnic. 

Vacation Church School. 

August 
17. Outside Speaker. Our own denomination. 
September 

7. Anniversary Sunday. 

14. Rally Day. 

28. Installation and Consecration of Sunday-school Per- 
sonnel. . ■».. 

Why at the Bottom? 

Before me is a comparative statement of per capita 
gifts to missions and benevolences during a year by 
twenty-seven denominations. The Seventh-Day Ad- 



ventists are at the top, with $24.67 to their credit. We 
are at the bottom with $2.35 to our shame. 

First of all, the answer to that situation lies in the 
fact that the Adventists are tithers, while comparably 
few of the members of our church tithe. Again, the 
Adventists think more of their brand of doctrine and 
religion than we do (although we do boast that ours is 
the best), as evidenced by the fact that they are willing 
to invest ten and one-half times more per capita than 
we are. 

We have some churches doing admirably as givers, 
but our average is brought low because of numerous 
examples like the one below : 

A certain District lias a membership of approximate- 
ly 4,796 members. Its gifts for Home Missions and to 
our Forward Movement last year were approximately 
$7,970. This would make a per capita giving of $1.66. 
If this District had given proportionately with the Ad- 
ventists it would have totaled $118,717.32. Wisdom 
would say we had better quit boasting about our church 
doctrines, until we are willing to invest as much in 
propagating them as other people do for doctrines that 
we are quick to discount. " By their fruits ye shall 
know them." , + , 

Mission Notes 

A cable, sent Jan. 10, announces the safe arrival of 
Dr. Homer L. Burke and wife, Marguerite, at Lagos, 
West Africa. They will now proceed to Garkida, to 
join the other workers at our mission station. 

The treasurer of the General Mission Board reports 
a deficit of $20,359.83 in all mission funds at the end 
of December, 1923. The deficit at the close of Novem- 
ber, 1923, was $38,542.70. This means that the deficit 
was decreased $18,182.87 during December. While any ■ 
decrease in the deficit is exceedingly welcome, yet be- 
cause of the splendid giving at Thanksgiving and 
Christmas time by a goodly number of churches, it 
was believed that the deficit would be wiped out. The 
task of the church is now to continue generous giving, 
so the mission cause can be freed of debt. The Sun- 
day-schools and Aid Societies have done a splendid 
work, and they should continue. But there are cer- 
tain churches that should not and can not lay these 
heavy responsibilities anywhere but on themselves as 
churches. If, between now and Feb. 29, the closing of 
the Board's fiscal year, all churches will courageously 
do what they should, the year can be closed free from 
debt. An encouraging feature of the treasurer's figures 
is the fact that the contributions from the churches for 
December, 1923, were $11,000 more than for Decem- 
ber, 1922. 

The third Sunday Missionary Offering in the Sun- 
day-schools has been a big help, both to the receiver and 
the giver. Without this help the missionaries would 
have been cut off from funds that are imperative for 
their work. The gift has had a splendid reflex action. 
Our Sunday-schools are promoted so that the pupils 
may learn the mind of God. We learn by doing, and 
the giving on the third Sunday for others has helped us 
to be better Christians. When the appeal was made for 
this offering it was asked only until the end of the 
Board's fiscal year, which closes with February. How- 
ever, considering the continued need, every school is 
urged to continue the special missionary offering once 
each month. —»~ h. s. m. 

Hints in Religious Education 

Northern California takes the honor this time in 
getting her annual report of Sunday-schools to the gen- 
eral office first. Who will be the caboose? 



At a convention of young people the question, " How 
many of you are tithers?" was asked. We were favor- 
ably surprised to see fully a third of the hands go up. 



January 10 we had a total of 336 Vacation School 
reports for 1923. There are many yet unreported. Last 
year we had a total of 306 reported schools. This was 
the largest ever. We send out free enrollment cards 
to our own schools. For this we think we ought to 
have prompt reports of schools as soon as they close, 
and leaders should see that we do. e. f. 



54 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



THE ROUND TABLE 



The Bible — A Gift at Baptism 

BY G. W. KIEFFABER 

Would not the gift of a Bible to each new member 
of the church, immediately following baptism, be a 
helpful means of developing the Christ life and 
strengthening the church? 

The Great Commission, which instructs us to 
" baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the 
Son, and of the Holy Ghost, " likewise directs us to 
continue by " teaching them to observe all things what- 
soever / have commanded you: " We teach the " all 
things" only as we teach the Bible itself. Then, too, 
the open Book in the hands of the reader brings ad- 
ditional blessings: " The words that / speak unto you, 
they are SPIRIT, and they are LIFE " ; "Faith cometh 
by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. " These 
three factors— SPIRIT, LIFE and increased FAITH 
— lend much to Christian growth. 

Objections answered: // the new member is zealous, 
%uill he not secure a Bible for himself if he has none? 
He should do so, and some will ; others will delay, 
and some will purchase one in a short time — which 
time becomes indefinite, and, measured by the calendar, 
gro\vs into years. Thus the vital relationship, which 
could have been established, is lost. If the new mem- 
ber has not been a daily Bible reader, the time to begin 
reading daily is the day of baptism; the practice to be 
continued daily thereafter. This generates new life, 
but its omission or neglect means lack of zeal, indif- 
ference, coldness — and the church as well as the in- 
dividual becomes weaker instead of stronger. 

"They" will hare Bibles in the new member's home. 
In the home where both father and mother are mem- 
bers of the church, it is quite the exception to find a 
Bible in the hands of each member of the family, in 
their daily worship. Daily family worship is the ther- 
mometer that registers the spiritual life of the home 
and the church as well. The Bible is the keytool in 
Christian workmanship. Our slogan: A BIBLE 
OWNED BY EVERY MEMBER OF EVERY 
HOME. 

// the applicant has a Bible of his own should the 
church give him a copy? Certainly. The church can 
not make a better investment. Its interest is better 
maintained, and its returns multiplied in every way. 
The receiver feels a double duty diligently to use and 
to follow the Book received as a gift. The Book he 
had could be passed to a friend and thus become an 
added blessing. 

/ thought that the pulpit, the Sunday-school, and the 
Christian Workers' Meetings -were the means we had 
adopted to promote Christian growth. All of these 
are but agencies -to place within our grasp the key to 
the solution of all problems of the individual, the 
church and the world— BACK TO THE BIBLE AND 
GOD. It is only as we keep in touch with both, that 
we are effective instruments in promoting righteous- 
ness in the earth. 

Canton, Ohio. 



Regions Beyond 

BY ARCHER WALLACE 

Some one has said that the chief trouble with the 
Pharisee of Christ's time was that he had no regions 
beyond. He was satisfied with himself. " He had no 
hunger, no disturbing sense of want. He regarded 
himself as rich. He had attained. There stretched be- 
yond him no entrancing prospect of territory yet to be 
traversed and won. He had no aching aspiration, no 
tense muscle of endeavor. He had arrived. ' Soul, 
thou hast much goods laid up : take thine ease !' That 
was his spirit." 

It is no doubt true that there is something dishearten- 
ing in the constant reminder that, no matter how far 
we have traveled in Christian experience, there is still 
much to be done. On the other hand, it is also true 
that without such a sense of dissatisfaction no real de- 
velopment is possible. "Blessed are the poor in spirit," 
said Jesus- They are blessed because they recognize 



their poverty in comparison with possible achievement. 
Every step in the way of life only increases their desire 
to go farther. They are never satisfied. In their 
hearts is a holy sense of want, and therein lies their 
blessedness. 

We ought to welcome anything which shatters our 
self-complacency and awakens within us a desire to 
traverse the regions beyond of the spiritual life. What 
a rude shock it was to Isaiah when he " saw the Lord, 
high and lifted up!" Up to that time he appeared to 
have been a most estimable young man, secure in the 
confidence and respect of all who knew him. But when 
he got a glimpse of the infinite holiness of God he cried 
out, " Woe is me 1 for I am undone ; because I am a 
man of unclean lips." That vision of God revealed to 
Isaiah the yet-untraveled regions of his religious life. 
No doubt it was a crushing experience, but nevertheless 
it was a red-letter day in his life. 

It was a fine point taken by Charles Darwin, that in 
the evolution of the eagle the desire to fly preceded the 
appearance of wings. That principle undoubtedly 
holds true in the realm of the spiritual. There can 
not possibly be any achievement until there is, first of 
all, intense desire. If the soul have no vision of greater 
things to be attained, then, as with the Pharisees, there 
will be stagnation and decay. Happy are they whose 
eyes have caught the vision of the regions beyond. 
Toronto, Can. 



The Slacker 

BY J. A. ROBINSON 

A wonderful opportunity we have because we live 
in a land of Christian influences. None of us would 
care to dwell where there were no churches or Bibles. 
We enjoy the Christian influence thus brought by them. 
But while this is an opportunity, it is likewise a respon- 
sibility. We are responsible for lending our influence 
on the side of right, for the support of Christian insti- 
tutions, and for the betterment of community life. Is 
it fair to enjoy all the fine things that Christianity 
brings, to reap the benefit derived thereby, and not 
contribute toward it by our own lives? 

The slacker enjoys the blessings of a Christian com- 
munity, yet fails actively to support Christianity. 

He enjoys the Christian influence radiated by others, 
but neglects to radiate it himself. 

He reaps the benefit of the united cooperation of 
others, but refuses to cooperate. 

He enjoys the financial sacrifices that others make 
to support the church, but refuses to contribute his 
share. 

He is always ready to shoulder responsibility upon 
others, but refuses to accept it himself. 

He is quick to criticise the Christian when he fails, 
while lie himself fails daily. 

He sends his children to Sunday-school, but neg- 
lects to go himself. 

He makes the " personal liberty " cry, but thinks 
only of himself in its application, and objects to others 
having the privilege of enjoying it. 

-He wants a Christian woman for his wife, but 
refuses to make her a Christian husband. 

He enjoys the blessings of J:he answered prayers of 
others, but neglects to pray himself. 

He is always ready to " knock " the church, yet 
would not live in a community where the church has 
been " knocked out." 

Come, let us be men and women, and stand behind 
the church. 

Pleasant Hill, Ohio. 



The Problem of the Lodge 

BY NORMAN A. WILSON 

You and I belong to the Church of the Brethren. 
The very name signifies that we are brotherly and 
fraternal. Yet we do not believe in secret societies 
and lodges. We oppose them. But they are built up- 
on the spirit of brotherhood. Why, then, do we op- 
pose them? They are not building in the name of 
Christ, but in the name of man. 

But they were started to accomplish the very thing 
that you and I believe in — brotherly love. Although 



we said that we believed in brotherly love, we did not 
thoroughly practice it. The world was cold and the 
church was cold for the want of the spirit of brother- 
hood. In order to supply this spirit, men have started 
the various secret societies. In so far as they have 
succeeded they have gained the praise of the world. 
They are getting the credit which the church should 
be winning. 

Now, the situation is this: We have the oath- 
bound secret societies, and some of their practices are 
not in accord with the Scriptures. Sometimes we 
have people who would like to belong to both the 
church and the lodge. What are we going to do 
aboufit? Brethren, let us be brethren in the warmest 
sense of its meaning. Then the sinner will be drawn 
to our number. And after he is with us he will be 
so happy in our group that he will never have a de- 
sire to stroll off to a lodge meeting. His thirsting 
and longing for companionship will be satisfied by us, 
the " big brothers " in the fold. 

Chicago, III. . » . 

No Time to Play 

He was a hurried business man, perplexed about 
many things. He quickly ate his lunch; then, with 
a murmured " Good-bye," he seized his hat and rushed 
away to his office. 

His little five-year-old daughter followed him to 
the front gate. But the busy man seemed unmindful 
of her presence. 

A moment later she came to her mother and said, 
while the tears of disappointment flowed freely: 
" Papa didn't kiss me or say ' good-bye ' or wave his 
hand — or nothing. " 

" Never mind, dear, your papa has so much to do 
recently. Our business is growing wonderfully. He 
has to hurry to get his work done now. Just think, 
we'll soon be rich! Your papa can't play with you 
as he used to do, but he loves you just the same. " 

" Well, " said the little girl, " I'd rather be poor 
and have a papa who has time to play a little with me. 
We used to have such good times ! I wanted to show 
him my doll's new dress!" 

This man, rushing to his place of business, leaving 
his little daughter standing, unnoticed, at his front 
gate, is but one of a great company of people who miss 
the big, fine, splendid tilings of life — because they are 
in a hurry. They haven't time. They are so deeply 
engrossed in the material that they hear not "the 
still small voice. " 

Suppose this father had spent five minutes of his 
crowded day in listening to his little girl as she, with 
beaming face and dancing eyes, told of her doll's new 
dress! Would it have been wasted time? Would it 
have been lost time? Say not so. Rather would it 
have been time safely and wisely invested. This man 
missed a wonderful experience when he did not pause 
for a little while and look at the new dress which his 
little girl had made for her doll. You must needs 
heap dollars high to outweigh the spiritual value of 
such an event as this. 

Long ago, when the Son of God walked the earth, 
children were brought unto him for his gracious 
blessing and his healing touch. He also was very 
busy. His disciples, seeking, no doubt, to save the 
Master's time and strength for more important things, 
rebuked those who brought them. But the great 
Teacher would not have it so. " Suffer the little 
ones, and forbid them not to come unto me, " he said. 

May we not safely conclude that we are misusing, 
therefore wasting, our time when we are too busy to 
pause for a moment and play with a little child? — E. 
C. Baird, in the " Christian Standard," 



Don't Draw the Long Bow 

" I am tired to death !" So you have said very often, 
yet you are still alive and well. " I had not a wink of 
sleep all night!" And yet your bedfellow heard you 
snore many times. " I would not do it for all the 
world 1" And yet you have done many things equally 
bad for a penny. " We were up to our knees in mud !" 
You know very well that the dirt was not over your 
shoes. — Chatterbox, 1877, 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



55 



HOME AND FAMILY 



Cyclamen Rare 

BY JULIA GRAYDON 

'Twas only a pot of cyclamen rare 
She placed on the ledge of the window there. 
But it brightened the day for those who passed 
With burdens and care that often harassed. 
And the owner herself, she never knew 
What a pot of cyclamen pink could do, 
But I could tell her, and so could you. 
Harrisburg, Pa. 



A Better Understanding Between Husband and 
Wife 

ELIZABETH ROSENBERGER BLOUGH 

Agnes faced her husband at the supper table. 
"Why don't you eat your supper, Joe? " 

" I guess I am too tired. Believe I'll go right to 
bed, " languidly answered Joe. 

The next morning Joe could not get up. He was 
ill, for the first time in his life. Agnes was perplexed. 
In all their years of married life she always knew 
her duty and did it. She also knew that Joe always 
fell short, no matter what his duty was. That part 
of her conclusion never varied. Joe had long since 
been convinced of the fact that nothing he did pleased 
Agnes. She insisted that he make more money. He 
could not do this in his shoe shop. 

" He is not getting any better, doctor, " said Agnes, 
after Joe had been sick a month. 

" No, he needs some new interest. I wish he could 
go somewhere else. He has always lived here, has he 
not?" a 

" No, doctor, we came here about ten years ago. " 

" I hope his friends come in to see him ; they may 
help to arouse him. I had hoped he would be better 
by this time. " The doctor took up his medicine case 
and went out. That afternoon a young man came to 
see Joe. He walked right up to the couch where Joe 
was lying. 

" I just heard today that you were sick, and I am 
sorry, Joe. Can't I give you a little of my strength ? " 
While he talked he held Joe's hand and looked into 
his eyes, as if he must bring the light and sparkle of 
health back to them. 

" I wish you could, Conrad ; you've always been so 
good to me, " answered Joe. 

"Good to you?" Conrad turned to Agnes. "Did 
he ever tell you how I came to him when I was only 
eleven years old, crying and whimpering in mortal 
fear? Five dollars had gotten away, and grocer 
Stein said I must have taken it. He sneered at my 
father, and said of course I had the money. And 
Joe, you took me on your lap ; you kept saying, ' Now 
don't be afraid ; nothing's going to hurt you. ' and when 
I quit crying, you took my hand and we went to 
Stein's grocery. To this day I do not know what you 
said to him that induced him to take me back for an- 
other trial. I do know that you paid him the five 
dollars. " 

Joe smiled. He saw again the awful fear in the 
boy's eyes, the shrinking from things unknown and 
dreaded. The five dollars had been found six months 
later under the desk in a crevice. No one doubted 
Conrad's honesty now. 

"I've come today to try to pay a little of my debt 
to you, Joe. Let me help to nurse you, or let me 
give you money if — " he hesitated as he looked into 
the cold, impassive face of Agnes. 

" I'll be glad to call on you if I need you, " said 
Joe, as he gave him his hand at parting. 

It was unlike Agnes to keep still about what Con- 
rad had said. Usually she analyzed motives and 
criticised whatpeople said. She was thinking, though, 
and wondering why she never thought of Joe as be- 
ing fine and willing to help a man like Conrad. She 
was gentler, too, in her treatment of Joe, as if she 
were trying to make up for past unkindness. 

The widow Schramm stood at the door a few days 
later. Bowed and old from much bending over the 
washtub, she was a pathetic figure. Very humbly she 
asked to see Joe. 



" They're saying he's sick, and I do want to thank 
him again for helping me when there was no one else 
to help. You see the baby bad diphtheria. Of course, 
the neighbors couldn't come in. And one day your 
man went for the doctor ; then he held the baby while 
the doctor did something to his throat, and he's 
living now. You ought to see him. " 

" Come right in, " said Agnes, hospitably. But she 
was thinking of Conrad, whose father was a thief, of 
this widow, each of them as needy as any one could 
be. Joe had stood by them both. He was looking at 
the widow in mild surprise. 

"So it's you! And how is the little 'un?" he 
asked. 

" O Mr. Joe, he's getting so big you won't know 
him. And I've brought you some jelly. " 

Agnes went with her to the door. While the widow 
was telling her that the children prayed for Joe every 
evening, Agnes listened wonderingly. She believed 
in God as a tender Father. He cared and watched 
over his children. But she had never thought of God's 
pity for our human foolishness. Dimly she realized 
the desolation of her house, and her lonesome mind. 
As usual, it was the real witnesses of life, standing 
dumb in the background, but now giving voice, that 
had the power to convict. She sat down to some 
mending, giving a glance about the sitting room. For 
an instant she felt to the full the pride of a clean 
hearth and a shining window. The sun was gleaming 
in a pale, wintry kindliness across the braided rugs 
and red roses strewn over her carpet. If Joe were 
only well, how happy they might be ! 

Joe was naturally kind-hearted. Agnes knew that 
he would be as merciful to a rabbit, caught in a trap, 
as he was to Conrad or the widow. Always he seemed 
to have the wisdom to understand earthly trouble, 
and the power to administer what remedy there might 
be. Had she known it, Joe had a simple creed that 
answered for his faith. He had read somewhere 
that " time is a boundless sea " ; that " the human 
soul is sometimes in the trough of it and sometimes 
on the crest. " Perhaps it had been his lot to see more 
souls tossed from low to high, and then fall from 
high to' low, than is the experience of most men. It 
seemed to Joe as if God were standing aside to let 
man do his part in saving the soul in danger of going 
down. The trouble of earth, like a panorama of pain 
and death, was the struggle for the mere chance of 
living. And every day men lost out. 

Several days later a big car stopped at the gate. 
A distinguished-looking man walked right into the 
house, the door not being locked. 

He said, " I beg your pardon for walking in, but 
it is very cold outside. I have come to see Joe. " He 
had a masterful way about him, almost as if he thought 
she might have wanted to keep him away. She led 
him to Joe's room without saying a word. The man 
went directly to Joe and said, " I've looked every- 
where for you in the last five years. Don't you re- 
member me ? " 

. Joe raised himself and looked at the stranger. " My 
word ! It's Benny Shirley. O my boy ! " 

Benny Shirley? How Agnes recalled it all! She 
had stormed and scolded in her own fashion when 
Joe said he wanted to keep Benny for a little while. 
She had been unkind to Benny, who kept out of her 
sight as much as he could, sleeping in the shoe shop. 
Oh, why had she been so hard and unsympathetic? 
If Joe would only get well, she was going to show 
Him that she, too, could feel for the pain of another. 

The two men saw again the wretched, cowering, 
shivering lad, whom Joe had befriended. Benny had 
come to him, repentant and desperate, sobbing and 
confessing. He had broken into a store and stolen a 
suit of clothes and twenty dollars in money. He 
wanted to run away, somewhere in the world, and 
make his fortune. But conscience and fear held him 
back, a prisoner. Joe stood by him through a court 
trial, and then took him to his home. Joe heard the 
shrill voice of Agnes as she prophesied that they would 
end in the poorhouse ; he was taking her there. She 
blamed Joe for everything that went wrong in those 
days. Ben Shirley held Joe's hands and petted him 
as a woman might have done, while he stood by his 
couch. 



" It was you who saved me. Your good heart 
trusted in me. I could no more go wrong after your, 
faith and trust kept me out of prison than I could 
betray you. Here I am, the work of your heart and 
hand. " | 

" I am very proud of you, " murmured Joe. " Why 
didn't you come sooner? " 

" At first the struggle^ was so hard that it would 
have worried you, so I "kept silent. Then you had 
moved when I tried to find you. How glad I am that 
I was not too late! You are going to get well. I 
shall take you for a ride tomorrow. " 

" Thank you, " said Agnes. " I have been wishing 
that he could go out. " A strangely-softened Agnes, 
Ben Shirley hardly recognized her. " And I want to 
say now that I am sorry for all my hardness ; and, Joe, 
I am going to be a better wife to you. " 

" If he does bestow all his goods to feed the poor, 
you shall not suffer want, " promised Ben Shirley as 
he was leaving. 

Huntingdon, Pa. 



A Wise Mother 

BY ELSIE K. SANGER 

I used to see her at church occasionally. She always 
seemed so happy. She lived miles and miles from the 
-church and had no way to get there except in the big 
road wagon. She and her children always looked so 
neat and clean, but she told me afterwards she had a 
hard time to get them all ready for church. 

She was a long way from the nearest neighbor, and 
miles from the nearest store. The farm was rough and 
crops often were poor, but she always seemed so cheer- 
ful, and one felt better for having been associated with 
her. I thought, "There is one person who is always hap- 
py," but I learned afterwards that she had gone through 
sorest privations and perhaps the deepest sorrows the 
heart can know. By and by the family moved near 
church and school. I visited in that home recently. 
All the family is in the church and one is a leader in 
Christian work. 

As I observed her manly boys, and saw how obedient 
they are, how respectful they are to their mother, how 
they enjoy spending their evenings with her in the 
home, how they enjoy their church life, how they save 
their money, their kind and courteous manner to each 
other, I began to wonder " just why." 

Then I observed this : That mother is blessed not 
only with a deep love for her children, but with an 
abundance of tact. She is their confidential friend; 
they go to her with everything. She sympathizes. She 
does not always agree with them in every plan and idea, 
but she keeps quiet till it comes to real principle. She 
has a firm*conviction of right and wrong and stays by 
it. She prays with her children; sings with them, 
laughs with them ; she weeps with them, she reads 
with them. She buys a few good magazines. She in- 
vites the best people into her home, and when they are 
gone she extols their virtues instead of their mistakes. 
She speaks respectfully of the church and her leaders; 
she is a good cook and a neat housekeeper, but is not 
fastidious and does not believe in spending all her time 
at these things at the expense of those things which 
make for eternity ; and, after all, I decided there is a 
reason — she loves God and she understands boys. 

Building in Boys 

Who builds in Boys builds in Truth, 
And "vanished hands" are multiplied in power, 
And sounds of living voices, Hour by hour, 

Speak forth his message with the lips of Youth. 

Here is the House of Hope, whose doors are Love, 

To shape young souls in images of right. 

To train frail twigs straight upward toward the Light; 
Such work as this God measures from above 1 

And faring forth, triumphant, with the dawn, 
Each fresh young soul a missioner for weal, 
Forward they carry, as a shield, the seal 

Of his example— so his work goes on. 

Granite may crumble, wind and wave destroy; 

Urn, shaft or word may perish or decay. 

But this shall last forever and a day— 
His living monument, a Boy I 

—The Wisconsin Winner. 

Sebring, Flo. 



56 



AMONG THE CHURCHES 



Calendar for Sunday, January 27 

Sunday-school Lesson, Israel Saved at the Red Sea.— Ex. 
14: 21-31. 

Christian Worker.' Meeting, The Doctrine of Christ- 
Acts 2: 22-36. 4**4 

Gains for the Kingdom 

One baptism in the Wawaka church, Ind. 

One baptism in the Huntingdon church. Pa. 

Five baptisms in the Pasadena church, Calif. 

One baptism in the McPhcrson church, Kans.'. 

Two baptisms in the Parker Ford church, Pa. 

One baptism in the Oklahoma City church, Okla. 

Twelve baptisms in the Hcrmosa Beach church, Calif. 

Three were baptized and one reinstated in the Goshen 
City church, Ind. 

Five were baptized, one reclaimed and one awaits the 
rite in the Beatrice church, Nebr. 

Six were baptized and one reclaimed in the Wooddale 
church, Pa.,— Bro. R. T. Hull, the pastor, in charge. 

Eleven were baptized and one received on former bap- 
tism in the Price's Creek church, Ohio,— Bro. John F. 
Graham, of Shippensburg, Pa., evangelist. 
4444 

Personal Mention 
Bro. P. R. Keltner's address is changed from Pearl 
City to Lena, 111. 

Bro. J. W. Lear is at McPhcrson College this week giv- 
ing a scries of addresses in the Bible Institute. 

Bro. O. P. Haines, of Lima, Ohio, begins his evangelistic 
meetings in the Union City church, Ind., Jan. 27 instead of 
Jan. 21, as had been announced. 

Bro. Herald H. Hendricks has changed his address from 
Pioneer, Ohio, to 1210 Wayne St., North Manchester, Ind., 
where he is engaged in Bible study. 

Bro. Oscar Diehl informs us that he will be in position 
to devote most of his time to evangelistic work after April 
1. He should be addressed at Beaver, Iowa. 

Bro. J. Clyde Forney, pastor of the Lanark church. 111., 
stopped off and favored us with a very pleasant interview 
as he was passing through Elgin a few days ago. 

Bro. Ross D. Murphy is serving the First Church of 
Philadelphia. Pa., as acting pastor, in connection with his 
work on the teaching staff of the University of Pennsyl- 
vania. 

" Bro. Plate took first meal with us when we began 
housekeeping," writes Sister J. B. Brumbaugh, of Hun- 
tingdon, Pa.. " and was a member of our family for months. 
... I have lost a personal friend." 

Bro. S. Z. Sharp, of Fruita, Colo, on a recent Sunday 
morning gave a birthday offering, which marked the 
eighty-eighth anniversary of his birth. He is still active 
in the ministry and also teaches a Sunday-school class. 

Bro. C. Eme»t Davis, Director of Religious Education for 
Northern California, has been giving an illustrated lecture 
on "Stewardship" in some of the churches, presenting in 
this way certain important facts in a very vivid manner. 
We are sorry to learn that Sister Edyth Hillery Hay, 
of Goshen, Ind., a member of the Hymnal Revision Com- 
mittee, is not in good health. She is said to be suffering 
from a general breakdown of the nervous system, and 
would appreciate the prayers of the church in her behalf. 
We knew that Bro. J. H. Moore, out of his long and 
intimate association with our lamented Bro. Plate, would 
have something to say about him to "Messenger" read- 
ers. We have his well written article in our hands but 
it came too late for this issue. Look for it next week. 

Bro. Andrew Hutchison passed the eighty-eighth mile- 
stone on life's journey on Tuesday, Jan. 15. Having re- 
tired a few years ago on account of declining strength, 
from active work in his long and faithful ministry, he 
now resides at La Verne, Calif., as he patiently awaits the 
Master's call. 

The Foreign Missions Conference is one of the important 
annual events of special interest to all missionary agencies. 
At the recent Atlantic City conference our own Mission 
Board was represented by Bro. H. H. Nye, of Elizabeth- 
town, Pa., and the Secretary. Bro. Nye's impressions of 
this meeting will be found elsewhere in this issue. 

Bro. John R. Snyder writes us from Fort Worth, Texas, 
where he is engaged in evangelistic work, to pay tribute 
to the memory of our departed Bro. Plate. "To me it is 
a distinct personal loss," he says, and continues: "Our 
acquaintanceship extended over a period of thirty years. 
I first met him when the House was at Mt. Morris and 
I worked under his direction, and there his characteristic 
energy and faithfulness to details impressed me. Then 
as the years passed on and the work grew and the re- 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 

sponsibilitics became heavier, he was just the same. Al- 
ways when in the House I would early seek his room and 
he was never too busy for a cheery word and hearty 
greeting." 

Sister Anna Fiant, of Habberton, Ark., earnestly desires 
the prayers of the church in behalf of her daughter, who 
is in poor health and in great spiritual distress because of 
her inability to trust the forgiving love of God; also in be- 
half of a niece who is in the hospital in a serious condi- 
tion and is greatly needed by the five little ones at home. 

Bro. F. F. Holsopple, Conference member of the Council 
of Promotion, was a last week's visitor at the Publishing 
House. He was in attendance at a meeting of a com- 
mittee of the Council, appointed to study certain phases 
of the Conference budget for 1924. His itinerary also in- 
cluded visits to Bethany Bible School and Manchester 
College. 

Bro. H. Spenser Minnich is scheduled to spend this week- 
end at Piney Flats, Tenn., stopping off on his way to the 
Daleville Bible Institute, where he is to assist in the in- 
struction the coming week. Bro. Ralph E. White, the 
pastor at Piney Flats, asks us to say that Bro. Minnich's 
addresses on the evenings of Jan. 26 and 27 will be given 
at 6:30, central time, and that the friends from adjoining 
churches are invited to come over and enjoy the services 
with them. 



Six thousand nine hundred and ninety-seven baptisms 
were reported in the " Messenger " during the^year 1923, ac- 
cording to the count of Sister Nannie Meyers, of Morrill. 
Kans. She kept no record of those reclaimed nor of those 
who were admitted to fellowship on a former baptism. 
And there are always some accessions not reported. 



4 4 *?* *1* 
Special Announcement 

We are glad to be able to announce that Bro. H. A. 
Brandt, at present residing at La Verne, Calif., has ac- 
cepted the position of Assistant Editor of the "Gospel 
Messenger," and is preparing to enter upon his new duties 
abou't March 1. Bro. Brandt needs no introduction to our 
readers, being well known to them through his contribu- 
tions to our columns. Neither is he a stranger to the 
Publishing House force, having served a while as Book 
Editor for the House a few years ago. By education and 
native ability, as well as by his thorough acquaintance 
with and devotion to the church and her interests, we con- 
sider him well qualified for this important work. We think 
the Brotherhood and "Messenger" office are both to be 
congratulated on his election by the Board of Directors and 
his acceptance of the position. We shall await his com- 
ing with eagerness and meanwhile, with the efficient 
service of our faithful helpers here, shall do our" best to 
keep the "Messenger" coming to your door. 
4444 

Miscellaneous Items 

We have received from the Chairman of the Hymnal 
Revision Committee an interesting report of progress made 
by the committee which is scheduled to appear in our next 
issue. 

That Pasadena Sunday-school class showed no little 
zeal, surely, in getting up at twelve-thirty A. M. to sing 
Christmas carols at thirty-seven homes. Many older 
people were made happy, our correspondent says. 

The Warrensburg church, Mo., has decided to secure a 
summer pastor during June, July and August of the present 
year. Pastors are probably no more important in summer 
than in winter, but many student ministers are available 
only at that season of the year. 

The lummer is a busy season for the Young People's 
Secretary because it is the time of the Young People's 
Conferences. The winter is another busy season for him 
because this is the time when these conferences are ar- 
ranged for. That is what Bro. Shamberger is doing now, 
looking out the best possible locations. 

Plans were made for some needed improvements, our 
correspondent from the Everett church, Pa., informs us, 
referring to the churchhouse. Similar action, we under- 
stand, is contemplated by the Huntingdon church, same 
State. There must be a reason that so many of our 
congregations are feeling the need of better equipment. 
At a certain recent council "the deacons were advised 
to organize and choose a foreman in order that any be- 
nevolent work of the church might receive prompt at- 
tention." A very commendable action, surely. The official 
board of every congregation should be properly organized 
and Jhe pastor or elder or both should see that this is 
done. 

A "Messenger" agent writes us of some of her diffi- 
culties. In the congregation where she lives three of the 
church officials refuse to take the paper, though they take 
plenty of other papers and one of them receives a liberal 
pension from the government. Two of them seldom go 
to church, one, a minister, not having been there for 
nearly a year. Rather interesting, isn't it? 

Special Notice. — Last October at the District Meeting 
of Middle Indiana it was decided that hereafter all funds 
for the work of the District Ministerial Board should be 
handled by the Treasurer of the District Mission Board. 
Consequently all money intended for that work should be 
sent to Alva Winebrenner, Treasurer of the Mission Board, 
Huntington, Indiana, R. R., and not to me. — R. C. Wenger, 
Former Treasurer of the Ministerial Board. 



A Bystander's Notes 

Skidding.— I his morning it is snowing. There is ice on 
the street. Automobiles are passing me. Some drive care- 
fully and some with little care. There goes one a little 
faster than it should. The street car track is interfering; 
the man at the wheel puts on the brakes, the car skids and 
he stops on the sidewalk instead of on the pavement. That 
skidding car, endangering the lives of others, and much out 
of place is like some religious workers, who lose their 
balance, fly off at a tangent and wreck not only their own 
lives but endanger the spiritual activity of others. 

A Hindrance to Traffic— Clatter, clatter, clatter, and the 
lone horse and his driver rattle down the pavement, the 
horse doing his very best not to hinder traffic. Autos are 
checked, because the fastest speed of the horse is too slow 
for the slowest speed of the automobile. Somehow old 
Dobbin seems to be crowded out in these busy days. He 
almost knows it, and only occasionally do we see him on 
the city pavement. As I watched this lone horse and driver 
I asked whether I might be hindering the onward 
progress of the great band of men and women who are 
hurrying on but are delayed because I am in the way. 

The Bible and the Chinese Army.— Under General Feng 
in the Chinese army are about 20,000 baptized Christians, 
and 15,000 who have not yet accepted Christ. The general 
himself is a Christian, having witnessed, like Saul, the 
death of Mary Morrill in the Boxer days. He is now send- 
ing groups of native preachers to the bandits of Honan, 
with the thought of trying the Gospel where the law seems 
of no avail. General Chang also is a Christian. He tells 
his people that China will never be strong until the leaders 
confess their sins and follow Christ. He pleads with men 
.to "follow Christ, keep close to the Bible, and pray 
through every problem." 

"Mystic India. — India is a religious country. The special 
religious temperament manifest in India is mystic. That 
is to say, she is contemplative, thoughtful, ever ready to 
believe in a dream or to see a vision. When Sadhu Sun- 
dar Singh thought he saw the Lord he became a Christian. 
When Amir Ali thought Alia spoke to him he also became 
a Christian. Recently, according to Saint Nihal Singh, an 
enthusiastic Hindoo, a huge concourse of Hindoo holy men 
and religious leaders at Benares, from all over India, 
passed a resolution, almost unanimously, to the effect that 
girls under twelve and boys under eighteen should not be 
married. And the significant reason assigned for the pass- 
ing of this resolution is "in the interests of national 
strength and the protection of religion." 

Julian or Gregorian Calendar.— Our calendar, which we 
have been using longer than any of us can remember, is 
the Gregorian. When a change was made from the Julian 
to the Gregorian, the more conservative nations did not 
readily accede to the point. England made the change on 
Sept. 2, 1752. The next day, as any old almanac for that 
year will show, was Sept. 14. The writer saw a copy at 
Harleysville, which was the property of Bro. Abram H. 
Cassel, years ago. Roumania, Serbia, and Turkey made 
the change in 1919. Soviet Russia came over in 1922. The 
Eastern Orthodox Church made the change Sept. 30, 1923, 
and the next day was Oct. 14 with them, the same as with 
all the rest of us. Consequently, last Christmas was the 
first time practically all the Christians of the world cele- 
brated Christmas on the same day. But one wonders 
what those who keep the Seventh-day Sabbath would do 
when such changes are made. 

How the Bible Became a New Book. — An interesting in- 
cident is reported by the editor of "The Religious Tele- 
scope." A lady expressed her deep regret that she could 
not get interested in the Bible. It-remained a dull book, 
in spite of her honest efforts to interest herself in it. She 
was told to open her Bible, and to read until she came to a 
definite duty there indicated. Then she was to cease read- 
ing and conscientiouly carry out the command as given. 
That matter having been attended to, she was to return to 
her reading until another duty was made plain, which 
was to be performed in like manner. In just that way 
she was to combine her reading with her practical ex- 
emplification of Scriptural precepts. She followed the 
instructions, and not long thereafter she testified with a 
glad heart that , the Bible had become a new Book to her — 
all because she had translated it into a new language, 
the language of life at its best. Just that is exactly what 
every honest believer should do, if he would make Bible 
reading not only practical but, at the same time, interest- 
ing. Our Bible reading must have a definite, well- 
pondered purpose. It must not stop with the mere read- 
ing — that is only the first step to real achievement, spir- 
itually speaking. The end to be looked forward to is a 
'godly character, helpful service rendered, and joy dis- 
pensed. We must be doers of the Word and not hearers 
or readers only. 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



57 



AROUND THE WORLD 



Sunday Concert* 

Many ministers and churches are wondering what to 
do with their Sunday evening service. For some reason 
or other the crowds grow smaller. Lectures, entertain- 
ments, concerts, moving pictures and what not have been 
resorted to. Probably all of us are lacking a little of that 
old Scotch religion which characterizes Harry Lauder, 
who persistently refuses to give entertainments on Sun- 
day. On one of his American tours Sunday work was ar- 
ranged for without his knowledge. Being caught that once 
he saw to it that no such arrangements should be re- 
peated for him. He 'refuses to commercialize the Sabbath. 

New Work for Chemists 

Some one who has given the matter much thought and 
who does not favor international enmity and war sug- 
gests, "If the world's chemists and the world's engineers 
would hold annual meetings in a friendly spirit, for the 
salvation of mankind! If they could agree together that 
to exercise their ingenuity on the perfecting of destruc- 
tive-agents for the use of governments was a crime; to 
take money for it a betrayal of their species 1 If we 
could have such exchange of international thought as that, 
then indeed we might hear the rustle of salvation's wings. 
And— after all— why not?" 



Platinum 

The chief supply of platinum has always come from Rus- 
sia. Before the war Russia was producing annually as 
much as 300,000 ounces of this metal. Very little platinum 
is produced in the United States, probably not more than 
1,000 ounces a year, and that in connection with gold, 
silver and copper. In no case could the platinum alone 
have been produced at a profit. It might be well to keep 
this in mind and should a golden-tongued promoter offer 
you stock in some platinum mine in America, give him the 

facts in the case. 

The Earth's Inside 

Men have long studied to try to discover the character 
of the inside of the earth. A recent theory claims that 
there is a large core in the center of irregular shape about 
4,200 miles in diameter. This core is pure iron, or iron 
and nickel, or may be gold, platinum or other metals 
heavier than iron. Next to this solid core there is a layer 
of iron and rock about 900 miles in thickness. Following 
this we have another layer of rock similar to that found 
at the surface but containing more magnesia and less 
silicates. The earth's crust, that envelops all, and with 
which we come in contact, is about thirty-five miles thick, 
and consists mostly of granite rocks. These statements 
are based on a study of the velocity of earthquake waves 
through the earth. The conclusions need not be taken as 
absolutely correct, for in this case they can neither be 
proved nor disproved. 



THE QUIET HOUR 



The North Not So Far Away 

Exploring the frozen north is no longer the problem 
it once was. The radio has made it possible to keep in 
touch with civilization. Captain MacMHlan and his crew 
on their steamer Bowdoin are frozen in the ice off the 
shores of Greenland. But they are not cut off from their 
neighbors even in the tropics. They have their own broad- 
casting station and daily are in communication with other 
broadcasting stations. Their evenings need ho longer be 
monotonous. Norway, England, Germany, Holland, France, 
Italy, Spain, United States, Mexico and Japan furnish them 
with concerts. They have even carried on conversation 
with Hawaii, which lies far away, a distance of five thou- 
sand miles. 

Conference Better Than Debate 
Recently there was a debate in New York by th'e two 
leaders of opposite schools of religious thought. For some 
time it has seemed that the Protestant churches are on 
the verge of division. There are those who have advocated 
that it would be better^or those who do not see eye to eye 
to sit around the conference table and there in the spirit 
of friendship and prayer talk over their differences with 
a view of coming together rather than through public 
press and pulpit to denounce each other. There have been 
some strong advocates of debate on religious questions, 
and there have been others equally strong who have 
alwavs insisted that the atmosphere that is'developed in 
debate is not the atmosphere in which the Holy Spirit will 

do his best work. 

Chicago's New Superintendent of Schools 
Chicago recently selected a new superintendent of 
schools, having secured the services of William McAndrew 
of New York City- schools. Mr. McAndrew leaves a posi- 
tion which- pays him $6,500 for one that is to pay him 
?15,000 a year. He is promised a free hand in the manage- 
ment of the Chicago schools. If this is granted- and the 
school board will not interfere, undoubtedly there will be 
less politics, less graft and more efficiency in the public 
schools. The new superintendent is apparently independ- 
ent in his ways of thinking. When the University of 
Michigan, his alma mater, invited him back to receive 
an honorary degree, he thanked the university for the 
honor offered him, but said he was busy and did not see 
that he could be present to receive the degree. He is of 
the opinion that America has gone wide of the mark on 
the matter of degrees. 



What Lloyd George Says 

After returning to his own country Lloyd George deliv- 
ered some pertinent remarks concerning America and Great 
Britain. The following are a few of his statements: "I 
come back more convinced than ever that the hope of 
mankind in the immediate future depends upon the ex- 
tent to .which the two greatest commonwealths can be 
persuaded to work together in world affairs. . . . The 
association between the powerful Protestant churches on 
both sides of the Atlantic is becoming everywhere closer 
and more intimate. The fact that two-thirds of the popu- 
lation of the States receives the same spiritual training as 
the people of Britain not only weaves bonds of brother- 
hood between them, but must have its effect in giving 
the same tasks to the outlook and vision of the two 
nations. . , . The peace of the world is at stake. It is 
a question of the path along which the human race elects 
to travel. One leads to peace, prosperity and unlimited 
progress. The other leads to bloodshed, desolation and 
infinite ruin. "America and Britain together can guide 
the world along the right course. 



Secretary Denby on Prohibition 

Some years ago when our own church schools dealt 
strictly with students who drank liquor or brought liquor 
on to the college premises, there were occasionally un- 
friendly remarks, some patrons claiming that our colleges 
were too strict in this matter. Read the following words 
from Secretary of the Navy Denby on the question of 
prohibition at the Naval Academy at Annapolis and you 
will probably rejoice that he is walking so nearly in the 
steps of our own college policy: "There having come to 
the attention of the secretary of the navy several instances 
of intoxication on the part of midshipmen at the Naval 
Academy, you are hereby requested to inform the regiment 
of midshipmen that hereafter any midshipman found guilty 
of being under the influence of intoxicating liquor or of 
-having intoxicating liquor in his possession, within the 
limits of the Naval Academy grounds, will be subject to 

dismissal." 

Ninth World's Sunday-School Convention 
In building the program for the Ninth Convention of 
the World's Sunday-school Association, which will be held 
in Glasgow next June, consideration is being given to the 
broad field of Christian education as it relates to the 
work in the various countries of the earth. The general 
theme will be "Jesus Christ for the Healing of the Na- 
tions." The sessions will continue from June 18 to 26 
and speakers of national and international note who are 
to speak with authority and from experience, are to be 
selected for the different addresses. Some of the subjects 
will be "The Sunday School and the World Call,", "The 
New World and the Old Gospel," "Christian Education 
the Hope of Civilization," "Winning the World Through 
Childhood," "The Place of Religious Education in World 
Evangelism," "The Sunday-school and World Prohibition," 
"The Sunday-school and National Righteousness," "In- 
digenous Lesson Courses," "Training a Native Leader- 
ship," "Adequate Literature for Schools of All Lands," 
" Organizing Adult Classes in Every Land," etc. 



London Safer Than Chicago 

London has more than twice the population of Chicago,, 
but Chicago has more trian ten times as many murders in 
a year as London. In the year 1923 London reported 
twenty-six murders. In the same time the murders in 
Chicago totaled 270. In London the police carry no fire 
arms. In Chicago the police are well armed. In London 
the citizens do not carry arms. In Chicago the thugs 
are well supplied with fire arms, and gun toting is com- 
mon. There are some who now claim that for the com- 
mon citizen to carry a gun not only is no protection for 
him, but that he really fares worse when he is attacked by 
thugs than one who does not carry a gun. Cities may 
have laws against the sale of firearms, but so long as 
guns can be bought through the mail, and are carried by 
the United States mail, there is very little hope of dimin- 
ishing the number of guns carried by thugs and common 
citizens. Time and again when professional criminals 
have been brought to court they, have produced a permit 
issued by some officer, allowing them to carry a gun. 
Why such permits should be issued is hard to explain. 

For a Better Understanding with the Negro 
Recently a conference of editors, representing sixty 
papers in six Southern States, discussed the negro problem 
in a constructive way. These editors were of the opinion 
that there need be no unfriendly relations between the 
two races and that both could live side by side in peace. 
We give here a few of their strong statements: "In the 
attainment and maintenance of improved interracial re- 
lations in our Southern States we believe that a policy of 
cooperation between the more thoughtful of both races 



" Living Epistles " 

2 Corinthians 3: 2 

For Week Beginning February 3 
" Living Epistles " Are Christian Personalities. — Truth 
is always something more than a written or printed page. 
It is a life. Jesus said of himself, " I am the truth" (John 
14: 6). In like manner do they whose hearts are trans- 
formed by the power of Christ become living exponents 
of godliness. Their thoughts, feelings, words, and deeds — 
everything that goes to make up character — are vitalized 
into an effective expression of the Christian message. Out 
of the heart are "the issues of life" (Prov. 4: 23). When 
it is regenerated the influences which proceed from it are 
in terms of living power; Each earnest Christian'is a wit- 
ness to God's power to make personality speak. 

" Living Epistles " Are Written by the Spirit of God. — 
The human servant of God serves as a penman or scribe. 
It is sufficient joy to him to be the instrument by which 
God inscribes an indelible message upon redeemed char- 
acter. It is the business of the Spirit to make clear to 
men the meaning of Christ (John 16: 13-15). Therefore 
what is written is really an "epistle of Christ" (verse 3), 
eternally impressed upon the souls of men and women 
who acknowledge the Son of God as their Savior. The 
Spirit imparts to them a growing understanding of the 
Christian evangel by enriching their own lives with spir- 
itual graces. 

"Living Epistles" Are Recommendations for Spiritual 
Workers.— Others might need to depend upon credentials 
written upon paper for their authority and welcome, but 
Paul himself would rest his vindication upon the faith 
and conduct of those whom he had won to Christ. Con- 
verts are the proof of God's sanction upon Christian 
work. Every leader stands or falls by the impression 
made upon his followers. It is likewise true of teachers. 
A minister's success is determined not so much by the 
excellence of his sermons as by his power to inspire men. 
Happy is the Christian who before God can point to people 
he has actually helped and say, " These, Lord, are the 
testimony to my Christianity 1 " 

" Living Epistles " Are God's Messages to Men. — The 
conduct of Christians is the chief religious book for the 
men of the world. Missionaries in heathen lands feel 
the force of this keenly. But it is just as true here about 
us. The Jewish council took knowledge of Peter and 
John "that they had been with Jesus" (Acts 4: 13). In 
the first Christian century Ignatius wrote to the Ephesians : 
"Give unbelievers the chance of believing through you. 
Consider yourselves employed by God; your lives the 
form of language by which he addresses them. Be mild 
when they arc angry, humble when they are haughty; 
to their blasphemy oppose prayer without ceasing; to their 
inconstancy, a steadfast adherence to your faith." Men 
will acknowledge power when they see it alive. 
Suggestions for Meditation 
Read "The Contagion of Character," by Hillis, Chapter 
I. 
"Living Epistles" whom I have known and read. 
What sort of message for Christ do others read in meP 
The human heart as a writing tablet. 
Is my Christian biography written on paper or in the 
character of other people? 

A Prayer 
Divine Father 1 Our whole estimate of human life is en- 
larged by the fact that the person of man may be the re- 
pository and exponent of living truth. This helps us to 
believe in thee as a Person and in the truth as a way of 
life. We would open our hearts to thee that by thy Spirit 
thou wouldest transform them into living epistles for 
Ghrist. Then may we be acknowledged as thy handiwork 
and may our influence in word and deed be used to win 
men to the truth. By this shall it be known that we are 
disciples of Christ. In his name. Amen. J. H. H. 



is fundamental. . . . The better elements of both races 
should strive by precept and example to impress the inter- 
dependence of peoples living side by side yet apart. . . - 
Greater effort should be made to publish in the white 
press news of a character creditable to the negro, showing 
his development along desirable lines. This would simu- 
late him to a higher standard of living . - .We do 
not believe that education suited to the needs of the in- 
dividual of any race is harmful. . . . Negro demand 
will absorb all teachers, preachers, physicians and law- 
yer* that the schools may turn out. ... The influence 
of thoughtful men of both races should be invoked to as- 
sure equality before the law for negro defendants in all 
criminal trials. Abatement of mob rule and its crimes 
is an aim which all good citizens should support. 



58 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



Chief Seats and Their Attainment 

(Continued from Page 51) 

this line we note that he measures success by standards 
that are opposed to the popular notion of what consti- 
tutes that desired end. His ideal was approached by 
the statesman who said, " I would rather be right than 
President." 

. The chief seats in the Kingdom of God can not be 
purchased with wealth ; they are not occupied alone by 
those who wear royal robes; they are not confined to 
ecclesiasticism ; they can not be obtained by material- 
ism with all its splendor. The gems of purity and 
truth are the price demanded for such seats. Whoever 
is pure is in a chief seat. 

They who are striving for Christ and the advance- 
ment of his cause on the earth are not concerned with 
their own personal welfare. They have in mind greater 
than earthly considerations, and those are what they 
stress. They may be looked down upon by the world ; 
yea, even despised ; but the redeemed of earth, whom 
they have helped Godward and to a broader vision of 
life, will duly honor them. This is the one position of 
earth worth striving for. 

It is a most surprising thing to see how mightily 
God can use many of the seemingly insignificant ones 
among our acquaintances. They have attached the true 
meaning to life, and as a result are benefiting their fel- 
low-man and honoring God. There will, perhaps, be 
as great a surprise in the next world when the great 
of earth are there sought for. God' rates differently 
from the way man does. Should the world alter her 
standards so that they would accord with the teachings 
of Jesus these surprises would not result. 

The " highway of holiness " ends at the throne of 
true greatness, for greatness is attained only by true 
goodness. We may possess much of material things, 
but we are as nothing unless we are loyal and pure. 
Character is ever the test of greatness, and he who at- 
tains the chief — the untainted — seat must possess a 
spotless character. With that he can give up all else ; 
without it all else is valueless. 

McPherson, Kans. 



he was a member of the District Ministerial Committee 
and the Historical Board, besides being elder in charge 
of the Whitcstone church. He had been in charge of a 
number of churches, among them East Wenatchee and 
Omak. 

Some of the brethren drove from Wenatchee, 130 miles, 
to attend the funeral. Services by Eld. J. U. G. Stiverson, 
assisted by Eld. H. M. Rothrock and the writer. 

Tonasket, Wash. C. E. Holmes. 



CORRESPONDENCE 




ELDER M. F. WOODS 

Manasseh Frederic Woods was born in Floyd County, 
Va., Jan. 16, 1869, and died Nov. 27, 1923. Bro. Wood's ac- 
cidental death was thought 
|to have been caused by a 
' fall from a horse. While 
there were no witnesses, it 
is thought the horse he was 
riding threw him and frac- 
tured the "skull at the base 
of the brain. He lived about 
a day but did not regain 
consciousness. 

His boyhood and early 
manhood were spent in Vir- 
ginia. April 21, 1893, he mar- 
ried Dora Sutphin. There 
were eleven children. Two sons and seven daughters sur- 
vive ; two sons died in infancy. 

For a number of years Bro. Woods taught school and 
during his life was much interested in the cause of educa- 
tion. He also taught singing schools. Soon after his mar- 
riage he was called to the, ministry and a few years later 
was ordained to the eldership in the Church of the Breth- 
ren and served faithfully in that office for the rest of his 
life. With his family he moved to Lyle, Wash., in 1899. 
He later moved to Newberg, Ore., where he assisted Bro. 
Geo. Carl in the mission work. After living in Oregon 
for about two years he returned to Washington, and 
took a homestead near Goldendalc. Here was located- 
the Laurel church, where Bro. Woods preached for seven 
years. It is said that some of the roughest men came to 
church because they loved Bro. Woods. He and his 
family next moved to Centralia, Wash., where another 
seven years were spent in farming and doing church 
work. In 1915 he moved to Okanogan County, Wash., 
where he located on the Whitestone project. Here the 
Whitestone church was organized and Bro. Woods threw 
his heart and soul into the work. 

He served on the Standing Committee and was a mem- 
ber of the District Mission Board for a number of years. 
He served on other important boards and committees and 
wsi always a leading spirit. At the time of his death 



A SUGGESTION 



We enjoy having the "Messenger" come into our home 
from week to week. My son has just installed a radio 
and we enjoy the messages of truth being broadcast over 
our land; also the beautiful sacred songs, especially the 
Christmas carols. It reminds us of the scripture, where 
Christ said: "If these should hold their peace even the 
stones would cry out." 

We spoke to our pastor, Bro. M. G. Miller, about taking 
steps to have some of the principal addresses from our 
next Annual Conference broadcast. After thinking about 
it I decided I would just drop a few lines to the "Mes- 
senger" office and probably set some others to thinking 
and working to that end. Many of our people who will 
not be at the Conference, besides many others who seldom 
enter a church, could have access to the messages and on 
Sunday morning we could put a radio in the church. 

Kingsley, Iowa. Eva J. Fike. 



PAST REFLECTIONS 



As I stand at the close of the year 1923 and see it ebbing 
out, I stop for just a moment and reflect on the past. 
First, I look around my home community, among my 
neighbors and friends. Here I find an empty cradle where- 
in once lay a sweet baby. Today that cradle bed is empty. 
Yonder are the little shoes. By that cradle sits a broken- 
hearted mother. On yonder hill is a new-made mound. 

I go a little further and enter another home. I behold 
a vacant chair. I pause for a moment, and then the silence 
of the room is broken when the answer comes: "She has 
gone home to be with Jesus." The call came suddenly 
at the midnight hour, and mother went home. 

I go a little further and enter another home. There a 
weeping woman and children are standing around the 
bedside of a loving father, waiting to catch the last word. 
While cutting down a tree it lodged, then suddenly fall- 
ing it caught him, inflicting a mortal wound. 

How true the words of the prophet: "There is but a 
step between me and death "! And again, " We all do 
fade as a leaf. " "Be ye therefore ready, for ye know 
not at what hour the Son of man cometh. " Oh, how 
fleeting life is! We are here today and tomorrow in 
eternity. 

Come, dear reader, go with me to one more home. 
Here is a noble young man who has just completed his 
college course. In a few more days he will be united in 
holy matrimony with a fine Christian girl. By the grace 
of God both expect to become missionaries to the foreign 
field. All is bright before them; not a cloud seems to 
hang over their fair horizon. Great possibilities are 
ahead; but before many months, that dread disease, fever, 
lays hold of the faithful husband. The wife watches at 
the bedside day and night. All that medical skill could do 
has been done. Prayers arc offered in his behalf, but day 
by day he grows weaker, until the final crisis comes and 
he is gone. We wonder why, but the God who rules the 
universe, and who sets each star in its place alone knows 
the destiny of man. -* 

O year of 1923, draw the curtain! Let me forget the 
past and press forward toward the mark for the prize of 
our high calling as it is in Christ Jesus. O gates of glory, 
stand ajar, and as I reflect upon the past, . may thy 
presence, O Lord, continue to cheer me on the way till 
I shall behold my loved ones in glory! 

As I enter the old sanctuary of the Lord, where I have 
worshiped these thirty-seven years, I look around to see 
what the year has meant to this church. Here is an empty 
pew and there another. Yonder used to sit a faithful 
elder's wife, in the pride of life and in the bloom of wom- 
anhood ; so useful, loved by all ; ever willing to assist 
in her Master's work. But at midnight, without a single 
moment's warning, God spoke and she went home. 

O vacant seats! Others must fill them. May we who 
are left behind strive with renewed energy to meet those 
who have crossed to the other shore! 

How important as we stand on the threshold of the 
year 1924 and look down through the three hundred and 
sixty-five days, that we think of the opportunities that are 
before us! Shall we give up because God has removed 
our loved ones? Nay, verily. " Quit you like men and 
be strong and of good courage. " God is still on our 
side, and when he is for us whom need we fear? 

Reader, what has your record been the past year? How 
many opportunities have you let pass by? How many of 
the sick have you neglected? How often have you helped 
heal the broken-hearted? What have you done to clothe 
the naked? How many of the hungry have you fed? 
What have you done to help the orphan and the widow? 



And above all, how many souls have you pointed to the 
Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world? Or 
will some of those that sleep in yonder cemetery arise and 
condemn us because we have failed to do God's will? 

O Church of the Brethren, what have you accomplished 
for God during the past year? When I speak to the 
church I speak to every individual member. Have we, 
as individuals, done our duty? There are twenty-one con- 
secrated men and women of God ready to give up home 
and loved ones, to make the sacrifice, to go to the foreign 
field and win souls for Christ. They are on our hands. 
We have set them aside. We have said that we have no 
funds to support them. How would a child feel in case 
its mother set it aside? They are our children. Let us 
rally to the work. 

Much is said in the Brethren Church today about move- 
ments. God hasten the day when we may have a Holy 
Ghost movement, one like the apostles had at Jerusalem 
when persecution scattered them. 

Reader, today we have a debt hanging over us of nearly 
$40,000, for missionary work already done. Call after 
call has been made to meet the deficiency. But still seem- 
ingly it goes unheeded, while many of us live in mansions 
and go to the house of God in high-priced automobiles. 
We walk down the carpeted aisles, sit in comfortable pews 
and then sing, "All to Jesus I Surrender." What have 
you surrendered? 

Reader, what if the money spent by members of the 
Brethren Church for nonessentials up to April 1, 1924, 
would be put into the treasury of the Lord? This de- 
ficiency would be met and our new missionaries could go 
to their fields. 

Nineteen twenty-three is past. Let us ask God to for- 
give our shortcomings. Hear the message of God: 
" Prove me now herewith ... if I will not open you 
the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing that 
there shall not be room enough to receive it. " Africa 
calls; China calls; the homeland calls. "Why stand ye 
here idle all the day? " 

The writer spent nine months of the past year in mis- 
sionary and evangelistic work. During this time I held 
twelve series of meetings, four of which lasted three 
weeks. These meetings were held in five States. In 
all but one souls were saved. Many homes were visited, 
prayer meetings conducted, Sunday-school classes taught. 
I attended many Aid Society meetings, distributed clothes 
among the poor and did much sewing for the needy. At 
the present writing I am at home for a needed rest, feel- 
ing that God has greatly blessed my labors during 1923. 
I am again open for calls for meetings during the coming 
year. I would be glad to hear from any who may de- 
sire my services at an early date. May God bless the 
" Gospel Messenger " and make it a blessing during the 

coming year. ,, ■ _ ,, .. 

B Mary E. Martin. 

Mt. Airy, Md. . » . 

THE WAY TO GET THE BEST OUT OF BOTH 
WORLDS 

To Sacrifice and Follow (Mark 10: 28-30) 

The question of the young man and that of Peter 
brought the answer that, to forsake and follow, was to get 
in possession of eternal life and reward. 

The all-absorbing consideration of our Brotherhood to- 
day seems to be to give gospel teaching to every creature. 
How wonderfully this spirit has grown in the last few 
years! — but what mostly concerns us now is, how to reach 
every creature (for the orders are not to miss one). The 
above text gives great light on the subject. Peter's ques- 
tion, "What shall we have, therefore?" seems to be the 
question of today. What am I to have, therefore, for 
making the sacrifice? It "is so wonderfully answered by 
the Lord. Could we believe this promise, our Mission 
Board would be relieved of all care and expense of work- 
ing in the countries that could so easily be touched by the 
followers of the Savior of the world. • 

Many seem to be waiting to be sent out, with the prom- 
ise of support. " What am I to have?" appears uppermost. 
Those who would like to follow Jesus (for that means to 
give the Gospel to every creature), look again at the above 
text. Perhaps it would be well to ask yourself the ques- 
tion, "What lack I yet?" What is to hinder hundreds or 
even thousands of young brethren and sisters from leav- 
ing their farms, their relatives, their church — which could 
so easily exist in their absence — and locating where the 
need is so great? 

In speaking to C. D. Bonsack at 'Calgary, last June, I 
insisted that the older ministers, who could so easily be 
spared by large congregations, especially where there 
are a number of ministers and where they have a pastor, 
be urged to make the sacrifice and come North to get the 
blessing for this life and that beyond. It seems that noth- 
ing but persecution will scatter the Christians. I am dis- 
tressed when I read of the many ministers we have and 
the effort our organizations are making in our churches, 
to keep them alive and willing to give to the cause, when 
the conditions of discipleship are so plainly given by our 
Lord, and the promise so sure if we forsake all and go 
where the need is so great. 

The Lord, in his own way, rather mysterious to many of 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



59. 



our brethren, brought last year's Conference to this new 
and great country, no doubt to reveal to the Brotherhood 
i be wonderful opportunity to fulfill the mission of the 
church in a land which lies so close by her side. All were 
impressed with the sincere welcome they received and also 
the great and good impression made upon the people and 
men of influence in this bounding West. 

The question should be, What did the Lord mean by 
this? What will we do? Will we forsake and go? The 
Lord has provided everything in this country to feed and 
keep people alive. The hardships are not so great. The 
harvest is plenteous; the laborers are few. Oh, get the 
question out of your mind, "What shall I have, therefore?" 
and take up the cross. Your bodies will rest as quietly, 
and as surely be found in the resurrection, in this country, 
as in your old home cemeteries, and the opportunity to 
have those you save not only wonderfully appreciate you 
here and now, will be yours, but they also will be yours in 
the everlasting kingdom. "What shall we have, there- 
lore?" 

" Verily, I say unto you, There is no man that has left 
house, or brethren, or sisters, or mother, or father, or 
children, or lands, for my sake, and for the gospel's sake, 
but he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, 
houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, 
and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come 
eternal life." Aibert Hollinger. 

Kindersley, Sask. 



WELLS BY THE WAYSIDE 
Fresno, Calif., Dec. IS and 19, 1923 

Our principal reason for stopping in this town was to 
look up Cousin Louis Clark Blough. But upon inquiry at 
his former boarding place we were informed that he had 
left' the city for Los Angeles two months previously. We 
also have living in this city two old friends, Mr. Levi Leh- 
man and his wife, whose maiden name was Miss Clarissa 
Holsopple. The latter was a pupil of mine just forty-two 
years ago, in the Custer School, Paint Township, Somerset 
Co., Pa., and we had hoped for a good visit. Imagine our 
disappointment, therefore, when we found that both were 
from home. We were met at the depot by their daughter, 
Mrs. W. H. Johnson, and spent a restful night at their 
place, and left on the early train for McFarland. Had no 
time to call upon any of the members of the Fresno 
church. 

McFarland, Calif., Dec. 19 to 21 

Here we called at the homes of Brethren William C. 
Hanawalt and B. C. Shick. The former is an old Pennsyl- 
vanian, and one of the elders here. Eld. Andrew Blick- 
enstaff is his associate in the work. The church here has a 
good building, and a parsonage by its side in the town, but 
no pastor to occupy it at present. I- attended their mid- 
week prayer meeting. It was interesting but small. Sis- 
ter Jennie Shick is a sister of our late and lamented mis- 
sionary to China, Anna Blough, and she showed us some 
of her literary productions that were never published. The 
aged Sister Shick, whose maiden name was Catharine 
Forney, is the mother of the plucky little missionary in 
South China. So the missionary spirit, naturally, is high 
in this family. 

These brethren are among the leading farmers in this 
section. Here a different system of irrigation is used. 
Instead of bringing in the water from some distant river, 
the pumping system is in use. Almost every farmer has 
his own well, and a large reservoir into which he pumps 
the water and from which it is carried over his farm. These 
deep wells have a twelve-inch bore, and the amount of 
water brought up by powerful electrically-operated pumps 
is amazing. There seems to be no limit to the volume of 
water that flows in sheets or rivers at depths varying from 
150 to 500 feet. All this costs a lot of money, but prac- 
tically insures a crop. While here we saw the last crop of 
alfalfa raked on windrows and lying in the field. To an 
easterner this seems like late haymaking. 

We are now ready to leave what is designated as the 
Northern District of California. At Bakersfield. twenty- 
*ix miles south of McFarland, we begin the ascent of the 
lehachapi Mountains, and by far the greater part of the 
distance of 171 miles to Los Angeles is through these 
mountains and the Mojave Desert. The mountain scen- 
ery here rivals in many respects that of the Cascades. By 
numerous windings, curves and horseshoes we ascend to 
the top at Tehachapi, where the elevation is 4,025 feet 
above the sea. We pass through twenty-five tunnels on the 
way, and at one place the road actually crosses itself and 
at a certain spot can be seen at five different points at 
once. Speeding over the Mojave Desert on a downward 
grade, about all one sees for many miles is sagebrush 
and the yucca plant. Thousands of acres of land almost as 
level as a floor are practically worthless, because (so I was 
told) the intense heat of the summer burns up vegetation. 
There is considerable rainfall. And so we come finally to 
Los Angeles, after dark, find a bus, and twenty-five miles 
more brings us to our destination. 

Buena Park, Calif., Dec. 21 

At nine o'clock, to the home of our cousins, Mr. and 



Mrs. Fred H. Bezona. Mrs. Bezona's maiden name was 
Susan Blough. She was a daughter of Uncle Philip, who 
recently went to eternity at the age of ninety years and 
six months. This is a small town, five miles west of Fuller- 
ton. It will in all probability be our headquarters while 
in Southern California. Mrs. Bezona is a member of the 
First Brethren Church of Los Angeles. Mr. Bezona is a 
member of the Christian Church of Fullerton. He is a 
deacon in his church, and both are regular attendants 
there. Eleven-year-old Evelyn Whitney, a grandnicce 
and an orphan, finds a good home with the Bezona family. 
Here the family altar has not been broken down, but 
there is Bible reading and family prayer morning and 
evening. This is worthy of mention, for it is so seldom 
found in our travels. I can not help wondering what 
would happen in the religious world if every Christian 
home would maintain family worship. 

On our first Sunday here we attended services with 
them in their church. Their Men's Bible Class meets in 
the Rialto Theatre, and is a large class. On that day 
there were 220 men in attendance, and a Christmas pro- 
gram was rendered. A company of sisters was present 
and provided some special music. A little toy, such as 
children enj'oy, was given to every man present, and 
caused considerable levity, and for the time being we were 
all boys again. The women and children had their pro- 
gram and treat in the church. Following the Sunday- 
school was the church service, consisting of singing, the 
communion, and a sermon by the pastor. In the evening 
the choir rendered a splendid cantata. We spent a very 
pleasant Christmas here, but we could not help letting our 
minds wander to our folks in the homeland, and imagine 
how they were passing the holiday season. This was also 
mother's eighty-ninth birthday. For a number of years 
it has been our custom for us and the children and 
grandchildren and mother to eat our Christmas dinner to- 
gether. Naturally we would miss it very much. 
Pomona, Calif., Dec. 28 to 30 

It was our pleasure to spend a few days with Brother 
and Sister Archie Backus and Brother and Sister Frank 
Sholly, who recently located in Pomona. These young 
sisters are our nieces, being the daughters of Brother 
and Sister John F. Dietz, of Detroit, Mich. We visited 
them last spring in that city. The two families motored 
through last summer, and can tell an interesting story of 
their trip. We were pleased to find them so actively en- 
gaged in church work here. We were present in Sunday- 
school and preaching on Sunday morning, and listened to 
a good sermon by the pastor, Bro. H. A. Frantz. We 
hope to see more of Pomona on some future visit, 
Long Beach, Calif., Jan. 6 to 8, 1924 

The first service attended here was the large Men's 
Bible Class which meets in the Municipal Auditorium at 
the pier, of which the mayor of the city is president. This 
is the class that had entered into a contest for new mem- 
bers with a similar class in Kansas City. The result of 
this contest was uncertain, as unfairness was charged in 
counting by both parties. But this is a large class, all 
right, as on this particular morning, the first session of 
the New Year, it was announced that 1,475 men were in at- 
tendance, and sixty-eight new men asked fo^ enrolment. 
The class meets at 9:30, and they open promptly. At least 
a dozen hymns and songs were sung, in most cases only 
the first verse and the chorus. A number of the hymns 
were among the best, but when it came to singing " My Old 
Kentucky Home," " Tipperary," "Long, Long Trail," "Open 
Up the Gates of Gladness," "Are We Downhearted," and 
" The Star Spangled Banner," I doubted the propriety. 
Maybe that is the way to get a large class. The prayer 
was fine and touching, and so was the address, and a few 
lessons were drawn from the life of Abraham. A good 
offering for the help of unfortunates was urged. It is an 
inspiration to see so many men together in a religious 
service. 

During the preaching hour we worshiped with the First 
Church of the Brethren of Long Beach, corner of Third 
and Walnut Streets. Eld. J. S. Zimmerman, the pastor, 
delivered a helpful sermon on "Opportunity" to a full 
house. In the evening, after a Christian Workers' session, 
led by Eld. B. F. Masterson, the writer was pressed into 
service. Their church building is modern and commodious 
and is claimed to be the best in the District. A fine par- 
sonage is close by its side. The membership is 148, among 
the number being six ministers. On this occasion the Sun- 
day-school attendance was 175, being higher than the en- 
rolment. A noticeable feature is the few young people. 
We were pleased to meet several members from Wenat- 
chee, Wash., and renew acquaintance. Quite a number of 
tourists are here for the winter. 

We spent several days in the home of Brother and Sis- 
ter Zimmerman. Bro. Mahlon J. and Sister Mary Meyers, 
of Somerset, Pa., are here for the winter. Mrs. Zimmer- 
man and Mrs. Meyers are sisters in the flesh. They, as 
well as Bro. Zimmerman, were born and reared in the old 
Quemahoning congregation, Somerset County, Pa., the 
same as we, and so we found many things of interest in 
common to talk about, and our stay was most pleasant 
and enj'oyable. 



It was also through their kindness that we were per- 
mitted to attend the Ministerial Meeting of the District 
in the Pasadena church on the evening of Jan. 8. Here 
the ministers' wives are expected to attend, and many of 
them do so. A large table, in the form of a rectangle with 
one side open, was loaded down with good things to eat 
that had been brought by the banqueters. More than 
fifty persons surrounded the table, and after the banquet 
we listened to four addresses. Bro. Zimmerman is chair- 
man of the meeting. Bro. Edgar Rothrock gave the main 
address. He was followed by,Rcv. Jennings, pastor of 
the First Brethren Church of Los Angeles. At this meet- 
ing the sad news of the death of Bro. Plate, assistant di- 
tor of the " Gospel Messenger," was received. The meet- 
ing also afforded a splendid opportunity to meet, and be- 
come acquainted with, many of the workers of this great 
District. 

Our trip to the Pacific at Redondo Beach and Long 
Beach, and to the Tournament of Roses Parade at Pasa- 
dena on New Year's Day, as well as a visit to the "Glen- 
wood Mission Inn," at Riverside, must all be passed by 

for the present. , _ _, . 

Jerome E. Blough. 
Buena Park, Calif., Jan. 11. 



NOTES FROM AHWA, DANGS 

On Sunday, Nov. 25, fifty-two were received into the 
church by baptism. About half of these were school chil- 
dren. The others were raw villagers who have been under 
instruction about a year. The candidates were children, 
young men and maidens, fathers and mothers, grand- 
fathers and grandmothers. The Lord Jesus Christ draws 
unto himself all men, wherever he is lifted up and made 
known. The church of the living God dare not retrench. 
We must press forward at all costs and give to all men of 
every nation the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, who 
alone can save from sin and death. If we fail to do so the 
blood of those who perish will be required at our hands. 
Poshla Rattan, our oldest and most advanced student in 
the Ahwa School, was one of the new converts. For 
several years he has expressed a keen desire to come into 
the church. He belongs to the Kurnbi caste, higher than 
the Bhils from which class most of our Dangi Christians 
have come. His father was village patel and had objected 
to his son's baptism, but he died a few months ago. How- 
ever before his death he consented that Poshla should be- 
come a Christian and arranged for his marriage to one of 
our Christian schoolgirls. We are hoping that the Lord 
may use this young man in bringing many of his own 
people into the Kingdom of God. 

An impressive wedding took place in our little church 
the other day. One of the Ahwa teachers was married to 
the daughter of one of our village teachers. Several of the 
teachers and families from the villages were present. At 
the appointed hour, the school children and friends of the 
bride and groom led them in procession from the home 
to the church, clapping and singing and "making a joy- 
ful noise unto the Lord " with cymbals and drums. A 
special song by some of the schoolgirls, a prayer, a read- 
ing of Eph. 5:20-33, an explanation of the sacredness of 
Christian marriage and an exhortation to all the church to 
live true to the marriage vow which is made before God, 
and then the young couple was united in holy wedlock. 
Then they were wreathed with garlands of flowers in 
Oriental- manner and one by one the congregation shook 
hands with them and wished them joy in their home. Then 
again the couple was conducted to the mission house by 
the school children and friends singing as they went. The 
missionary brought out the marriage register in which 
the newly wedded wrote their names and then they went 
to their own home where they enjoyed the wedding feast 
with their friends. 

Brother and Sister Shull who began work at Ahwa the 
latter part of June are doing splendidly in the Ahwa 
School. This has been no small task for few of the people 
in the Dangs know how to appreciate a good school. 
Shortly before they came about forty new pupils had en- 
tered the school. Then two of the teachers died during 
the "flu" epidemic, so the reorganization of the school 
and the introduction of new methods have required some 
hard work. Brother and Sister Shull arc well able to do 
this kind of work, and we look forward to the time when 
some well prepared leaders will be sent out from our 
school to push the cause of the Lord in this needy por- 
tion of his vineyard. 

One Sunday afternoon a few weeks ago we went with 
our Bible women and some of the schoolgirls to hold a 
meeting for some Kurnbi women who live in the outskirts 
of Ahwa. Most of these women attend our Sunday-school 
and church services, but that morning they were not 
present and we asked why they had not come. "Oh, to- 
day is our great day, a very special holiday which comes 
only once a year." "And how do you keep this great 
holiday?" we asked. "It is really a fast day," she con- 
tinued. "This morning the boys and girls and men who 
look after cattle went out with their herds without food. . 
Now we will cook this new rice which we have just hulled 
and at sunset the whole village will have a feast together, 
(Continued on Pngo 62) 



60 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



Notes From Our Correspondents 



ALABAMA 

Fruitdnlc church met in council Dec. 22, with Bro. D. G. Brubaker 
as moderator. No change was made in eldsr for the coming year. 
Bro. S. E. Miller was elected clerk and Sunday-school superintendent; 
Sister Pearl CI ague, correspondent and Christian Workers' president; 
J. D. Bashor, " Messenger " agent. A number of committees were 
also elected, and five trustees. No change was made in the mission 
committee, of which the writer is chairman. We feel we will have 
a good program the coming year. We held our semiannual love 
feast Dec. 29. with Bro. Roy White, of Citronelle, officiating. Other 
ministers present were D. G. Brubakcr and M. Wine. Our Sunday- 
school is growing, as quite a number of people arc moving in to work 
at the large saw mill now under construction.— J. ,Z. Jordan, Fruit- 
dale, Ala., Jan. 15. 

Oneontn.— A very helpful revival was conducted in this church 
by Eld. A. M. Laughrun, of Joncsboro, Tenn. The meetings con- 
tinued from Dec. 1 to 18. Twenty-five sermons were preached 
which were messages of inspiration and strength to the church 
members and warnings to the unsaved. Bro. Laughrun presents 
Bible truths in a forceful and convincing manner. His sermons 
were well received by the people of the community. Prior to the 
revival, cottage prayer meetings were conducted weekly for two 
months. Most of the members attended regularly and afterward 
were active in personal work. The attendance at the meetings 
was very good even though there was much rain, and very 
muddy roads. There were sixteen confessions. Eleven entered the 
church by baptism and one awaits the rite. We arc now reap- 
ing the benefits of the little Sunday-school which was begun when 
we located here. Two of the applicants for baptism were from 
homes where the " Messenger " was sent, The church here ap- 
parently grows rather slowly, yet gradually. Thirty have been re- 
ceived by baptism in the nine years of our work. We have a 
neat and comfortable little churchhouse, with a seating capacity 
of 230, heated by a pipeless furnace and lighted with gasoline lights. 
The cementing of the basement and arranging into three Sunday- 
school rooms with movable partitions will complete the build- 
ing. Our official body is being enlarged. At our last church 
meeting Bro. David Richie was elected to , the deacon's office. 
During the revival he and his wife were installed. Bro. Harry 
Hoover was given the privilege of acting as a deacon in which 
office he had formerly been installed. Bro. John Pctric, one 
of our faithful deacons, and his wife are sojourning in California. 
Sister Edna Gerber has gone to Ohio for several months. She 
has been assisting in the church work as teacher of our juniors. 
We hope for the return of these workers. We have Sunday-school 
every Sunday morning, preaching every third Sunday following 
Sunday-school, and every 'first Sunday night of the month, with 
Bible class on all other Sunday nights. Our pastor, Eld. E. M. 
Culler, teaches the Bible class which is now studying the Book 
of Hebrews. Our churchhouse is located within easy access from 
Birmingham, the great city of our State. We hope brethren and 
sisters passing through to or from Florida may come to us.— 
Mrs. Bertha A. Culler, Cleveland, Ala., Jan. 5. 

ARIZONA 

Glendale church met Dec. 21 for the election of church and Sun- 
day-school officers. Bro. D. D. Thomas was reelected elder; Bro. 
O. E. GUletr, Sunday-school superintendent; Sister Emma Whislcr 
clerk; Orpha Statler, president of the Christian Workers' Meet- 
ing; the undersigned, "Messenger" agent and correspondent. Dec. 
28 our church met in council. One letter was granted. It was decided 
to hold a series of meetings beginning Jan. 13. with Bro. Leander 
Smith, of Phoenix, in charge. Our love feast will be announced 
later.— Etta Wilson. Glendale, Ariz., Jan. 7. 

ARKANSAS 

Pdot Knob.-Dec. S Bro. C. H. Brown, of Lowell, Ark., began a 
series of meetings, continuing until Dec. 18. He gave us sixteen 
splendid sermons. Although there were no accessions, we feel that 
good seed was sown. Bro. Brown preached four times in Alpena Pass 
and by request will hold monthly appointments there. Dec. 20 Eld. 
J. H. Argabright, of Fairview, Mo., gave us two fine sermons. He 
also presided at our council Dec. 24. Letters were "received from 
Brethren Chas. Miller and Elmer Lewis and families, from Indiana. 
and Bro. Jas. Harp and family, of Montana. Dec. 30 our Sunday- 
school was reorganized, with John Davis, superintendent. Jan. 6 
Bro. J. H. Morris, of Carthage, Mo., gave us two inspiring sermons. 
His presence and inspiration were greatly appreciated.— Ollie A Harp 
Alpena Pass, Ark., Jan. 8. 

CALIFORNIA 

Glendora.— Old friendship ties were renewed and strengthened on 
Thanksgiving Day at the old-fashioned meeting held in this church 
We have begun to look forward to it as an established custom 
Each year brings those from a distance who have met with us 
before and also new friends. Our morning services opened at 
10 o clock with i devot.onals by our aged and beloved Bro. Mastcrson, 
of Long Beach, followed by a number of choice selections by our 
choir of young people. Bro. Harrison Frantz, pastor of the Pomona 
congregation, brought us the message of the morning from the sub- 
ject, I Am Debtor." At the noon hour a bountiful repast was 
served by the church out in the open to about 400. At 2 o'clock 
we assembled for the examination service. From S to 6 an open 
air song praise and testimony service was held on the front steps 
of the church, while the communion tables were being arranged. 
This was a source of great joy and spiritual uplift to those who 
took part and to those who listened. The day was concluded with 
the communion with about 300 present. We hope to continue these 
services each Thanksgiving Day .-Mrs. Rctta Funk, Glendora, Calif 
Jan. 7. 

Hermooa Beach.— Very impressive Thanksgiving services were held 
at the church with special songs, On Wednesday evening, after a very 
interesting prayer meeting, nine people were baptized. The following 
Sunday evening three more were received into the church by bap- 
tism— aU being members of our Sunday-school. Our pastor and his 
wife. Brother and Sister Carl, have been doing much visiting in the 
homes of the community. The Sunday-school superintendent and 
his wife, Mr. and Mrs. Stump, also have been trying to visit all the 
homes of the pupils. Our Home Department is a live factor in the 
Sunday-school under the leadership of Mrs. Leonard and Mrs. Stutz- 
man. The Cradle Roll has grown rapidly, now having sixty-six babies 
enrolled with Mrs. B. Scott, superintendent. On Christmas eve a very 
appropriate program was rendered. Plans are now being made to 
move the present church building so that work on the new church- 
house will be started. We are in need of more room as our Sunday- 
school attendance last Sunday was 215,— Mrs. Alpha N. Stump Lo- 
mita, Calif,, Jan. 8. 

Lind*ay.-P resident Studebaker, of La Veme College, was with us 
Dec. 16 and gave two fine addresses. La Verne is indeed fortunate 
to have such an able man to direct the lives of the young people 
within her doors. Christmas Sunday the Primary and Junior Depart- 
ments of the Sunday-school rendered a pleasing program. The musical 
program given in the evening by the young people was exceptionally 
good. Last Sunday evening we were glad to have Bro. C. Ernest 
Davis, director of Religious Education, with us. His address, " Christ 
and World Affairs." was enjoyed by all. We have decided to hold cot- 
tage prayer meetings on Wednesday evenings during the remainder 
of the winter.— Mrs. Hazel L. Cunningham, Strathmore, Calif., Jan. S. 

Uv« Oak.— Jan. 8 Bro? C. Ernest Davis, District Director of Re- 
ligious Education, gave us an illustrated lecture on "Stewardship." 
It portrayed very vividly the possibilities should every Christian 
return to (he Lord that portion of the material things that he owes. 
Plans are being made for a Mission Study Class in both the adult 
and junior departments.— Albert Crites, Live Oak, Calif., Jan. 10. 



Pasadena, church held her regular council Nov. 19. Church officers 
and committees were elected for the year with Bro. H. A. Brubakcr, 
elder; J. A. Heckman, clerk; Bro. P. P. Peters, president of the 
Christian Workers' Society, with assistants for the young people's 
and children's divisions. A total budget of $3,560 was passed for this 
year, Bro, Ira Lapp held a splendid revival in our, church. We have 
had Rally Day and Christmas programs. At Christmas time one of 
the Sunday-school classes went caroling from 12:30 to 5 A. M., sing- 
ing at thirty-seven homes. Many older people were made happy by 
the music. Five have been baptized and twenty-four received by 
letters. The Christmas offering in response to the mission call was 
$150,36. Our school of Missions is being started now, each department 
having work suited to it. We have many new people coming into 
our city. All are welcome to come and worship with us.— Ida B. 
Gibbet, Pasadena, Calif., Jan. 14. 

Rio Linda church met in council Dec. 22. Officers were elected for 
the year, with Bro. W. R. Brubaker as elder. The deputation team 
from La Verne College gave us a splendid program on the following 
day which was enjoyed by all. We are glad for these young people 
and their splendid work. We would be glad for any members who are 
going to change location to stop and look at our country.— Mrs. Geo. 
E. Glick. Sacramento, Calif., Jan. 10. 

CANADA 

Bow Valley church met Dec, 22 in business session, with Bro. J. H. 
Brubakcr presiding. The following officers were chosen for this year: 
Bro. Joe Weddle, elder; Bro. H. Bennett, clerk: Sister Esther Rens- 
bergcr, Sunday-school superintendent. The Sunday-school board met 
Dec. 28 and arranged fbr part of their work for the year. The 
school will take up the New Testament for the chapter reading con- 
test as our lessons are in the Old Testament. The church decided 
to hold a Bible Institute the coming summer. We held our com- 
munion service on Dec. 25. Bro. Melvin Rensberger officiated. A 
Christmas program was rendered by the children on Sunday evening, 
Dec. 23.— Stella Bowman, Gleichcn, Alta., Can., Jan. 3. 

COLORADO 

Colorado Springs church met in business session Dec. 16, at which 
time officers for the church, Sunday-school and Christian Workers' 
Society were elected: Elder, S. J. Heckman; clerk, Etta Clark; Sun- 
day-school superintendent, Eva Hughes; president of Christian Work- 
ers' Society, Bertha Baker. It was arranged that the Ministerial 
Committee write to Bro. J. E. Jarboc, asking him to hold evangelistic 
meetings at this place in the near future. Dec. 23 we gave our Christ- 
mas program, at which time an offering of $25 was taken for the 
Emergency Fund. There is an increase of attendance in all our 
meetings, and we are looking forward to a prosperous year. — Ella 
Constance Englc, Colorado Springs, Colo., Jan. 11. 

First Grand Valley.— Our church officers for this year arc as 
follows: Bro. J. D. Coffman, elder; Bro. H. C. Wright, assistant; 
Bro. J. A. Weaver, clerk; Sister Pearl Lapp, Christian Workers' 
president; Berma Kelley, church correspondent. Dec. 8 and 9 Bro. 
M. R. Zigler, Home Mission Secretary, was here and gave us two 
wonderful sermons. Dec. 16-26 Bro. E. B. Hoff, of Bethany Bible 
School, held a Bible School with morning and evening sessions. 
It surety was a great treat. We are very thankful for such a 
man as Bro. Hoff to teach us and feel greatly blest by his being 
here.— Mrs. Berma Kelley, Grand Junction, Colo., Jan. 7. 

Fniita church met In members' meeting Jan. 5 with Bro. J. R. 
Frantz presiding. Many of the old officers were retained, among 
them Bro. S. Beery as elder. The financial report was good. The 
members are glad that they can send little donations abroad. We 
greatly appreciated the encouragement given us by the Home Mis- 
sion Secretary on a recent visit. Bro. Hoff also has been with us. 
The Bible knowledge he brought us was a treat and was wonderfully 
valuable. The young folks of the Sunday-school and Christian Work- 
ers' Society gave a pantomime, " The Light of Men," Dec. 23 to a 
large and appreciative audience. Bro. Sharp gave his eighty-eighth 
birthday offering to the Sunday-school Sunday morning. He is at 
his best in the pulpit and also teaches a Sunday-school class.— Effie 
Gnagey, Fruita, Colo., Jan. 7. 

FLORIDA 

Arcadia congregation assembled in council in December, with Eld. 
J. H. Garst in charge. Three members were received by letter. 
The church and Sunday-school officers were elected for the ensuing 
year: Elder J. H. Garst; pastor, S. W. Bail; assistant pastor, J. I. 
Thomas; clerk, Bro. John Moriarty; "Messenger" agent and corre- 
spondent, the writer; Sunday-school superintendent, Bro. C. A. Trump. 
The deacons were advised to organize and choose a foreman in order 
that any benevolent work of the church might receive prompt atten- 
tion. We arc looking forward to a series of evangelistic services to 
be conducted by Bro. James Rogers, of Sebring, Fla., in the very near 
future.— Helen G. Thomas, Arcadia, Fla., Jan. 11. 

IDAHO 

Winchester.— The church met in quarterly council Jan. 4. All of- 
ficers were elected for one year: Elder, S. F. Niswander; clerk, 
Jesse Walker; the writer, "Messenger" agent and correspondent; 
Sister B. L. Mannen. superintendent of the Junior Christian Workers; 
John Wilsey, church trustee for three years; Virgil Niswander, Sun- 
day-school superintendent. The average attendance for the Sunday- 
school for the past year was eighty-eight. The school decided to give 
the offerings for missionary work; some of it will go to Sister 
Anctta Mow of India, and to Brother and Sister Horning of China, 
and the balance to the General Mission Board.— Amanda E. FJory, 
Winchester, Idaho, Jan. 7. 

ILLINOIS 

Cherry Grove.— A splendid program was given at Christmas by our 
young people, which included a pageant, beautifully portraying the 
birth of Christ. Immediately after this our pastor and family were 
presented with a set of six chairs and a rocker. Three years ago we 
secured Bro. Ira E. Weaver as pastor. This gift was in appreciation 
of the excellent work done by him and his good wife. Some of our 
readers will look back years ago to the old Cherry Grove church- 
hcusc built in the early sixties. At a special District Meeting Nov. 
12, 1875, at Cherry Grove, was born the cause of foreign missions of 
the Church of the Brethren. Bro. Enoch Eby and wife, and Bro. 
Daniel Fry and wife were in a few months on their way to Denmark. 
Those who first carried the Gospel across the water have gone to the 
better land, and only a few are now living who remember the day. 
But the old Cherry Grove churchhouse still stands in silent memory 
of that great event that took place within her walls. While many 
country churches have closed for want of workers, our church is still 
in a flourishing condition in almost every department. We have 
a splendid lot of young people with almost 100 per cent of them in 
the church. While some of our young people arc away at college, we 
have splendid workers at home who are really doing things in the 
Sunday-school and Christian Workers' Meeting.— Li Hie M. Finifrock, 
Lanark, 111., Jan. 10. 

Rockford.— First church met in council Dec. 27, with Eld. S. S. 
Plum presiding. Church officers were elected, with Bro. Plum, 
elder. Our new pastor and his wife, Brother and Sister John M. Roller, 
also were present. Bro. Roller, who is located at South Day Avenue, 
is launching a very extensive campaign for the carrying on of the 
Lord's work in our community. We are much in need of workers. 
Our many factories offer employment. We have excellent school and 
church privileges, There are good renting facilities and also many 
houses for sale. If members know of those who have moved into 
our vicinity and are not attending any church, we would appreciate 
their cooperation in getting them to enlist in the Master's service- 
Walter E. Stem, Rockford, 111., Jan. 13. 

INDIANA 

Bethel.— Thanksgving eve a number of brethren and sisters gave 
a surprise to our elder, Bro. Manly Deeter, and wife, to show our 
appreciation of their labor here. Dec. 3 Bro. E. C. Swlhart. of Elk- 
hart, began a two weeks' meeting. Although there were no addi- 
tions to the church the membership was encouraged. Nov. 24 the 
church met in council. The report of the annual visit was given. 
Bro. T. L. Hammond was elected Sunday-school superintendent. We 



have added a young married people's class to our number.— Dessie M. 
Schuder, Milford, Ind., Jan. 14. 

Goshen City church met in council Dec. 19, with Eld. T. E. George 
presiding. Three new members were received by baptism and one 
was reinstated. Eighteen letters were received and eight were 
granted. We reorganized our Sunday- school, with Ora Biglcr super- 
intendent. The Sunday-school gave an interosting Christmas pro- 
gram Dec. 23, Our offering for the Emergency Fund was $342.05.— 
Matie Mick, Goshen. Ind., Jan. 14. 

Manchester church met in council Dec. 6. Reports of the various 
committees were given. They were all very encouraging and showed 
excellent progress in the work here. Especially were the financial 
reports good. The church has met her obligations in a very satisfac- 
tory manner. The church officers for the coming year were elected, 
with Bro. Otho Winger, elder. Dec. 16 the Sunday-school officers 
were chosen for the year,' with Bro. A. R. Eikenberry general super- 
intendent. For nearly three months all services were held in the 
college buildings while the church was undergoing repair. Dec. 23 
the church was ready for use. and this Sunday was planned as Rally 
Day in the Sunday-school. Nearly 600 were present for services. 
Following Sunday-school the pastor, Bro. R. H. Miller, preached a 
very inspiring Christmas sermon on the theme of " Peace." In the 
evening a very interesting program was given by the children's di- 
vision and the young people. Following this was the gift service in 
which the entire church had a part. The gifts amounted to $860. 
This meant that nearly every member of the church and Sunday- 
school had contributed and also that the call of the Mission Board 
for a dollar -a member gift had been answered. Dec. 24 a cantata, 
" Bethlehem," was given by the young people, under the direction 
of Mrs. B. F. Wampler. The young people arc doing some excellent 
work. They have been organized for several years, but are now per- 
fecting their organization and preparing for greater service. Their 
Sunday evening meetings are helpful and inspiring. Our Fathers and 
Sons' Meeting, Nov. 12, was a most enjoyable and helpful event. 
About 150 were present. Bro. C. D. Bonsack addressed them. Other 
speeches were made. All of these tended to create a better under- 
standing between fathers and sons.— Mrs. J. E. Dotterer, North Man- 
chester, Ind., Jan. 12. 

Middletown.— Bro. Dillon of the Old People's Home preached for us 
last Sunday about taking a review of our past life— an inventory of 
the past. We have been attending a protracted meeting here held by 
the New Light people. The minister is an able speaker and is very 
earnest in his work; he preaches some stirring sermons. — Florida J. E. 
Green, Middletown, Ind., Jan. 15. 

Pine Creek.— Eld. J. H. Morris, of Carthage, Mo., was with us dur- 
ing the holidays in a Bible Institute. The general average of attend- 
ance of adults in the audience room was forty-six; junior and pri- 
mary, twenty-seven. Sister Frank Keiser was, their instructor. Bro. 
Morris gave us two periods, preaching in the forenoon on the "Di- 
vinity of Christ." In the evening there was one period on the 
Book of Romans and a Bible story of thirty minutes for the children, 
followed by a sermon. On Sunday we had an all-day meeting, with 
Sunday-school, followed by a sermon by Bro. Morris. Dinner was 
served at noon in the basement. In the afternoon the juniors and" 
primaries rendered an excellent program followed by a sermon. In 
the eveuing the Christian Workers rendered a fine program, after 
which there was a splendid sermon by Bro. Morris. We certainly ap- 
preciated his work and his visits in the homes. Dec. 23 the children 
and the young people gave a good program.— M. 9. Morris, North 
Liberty, Ind., Jan. 10. 

Pyrmont.— At our present business meeting Dec. 8 church and Sun- 
day-school officers were elected for the year, with Sister Harriet Mctz- 
ger, suparintendent of the main school. Dec. 30 installation services 
were held for the new workers. Bro. Beery preached an inspiring 
sermon. Two letters were received and eight granted. We feel the 
loss of so many moving from our midst; we have granted twenty 
letters in the past few months. But the interest and attendance are 
good at all services. A prayer and praise service is held each Thurs- 
day eveuing, conducted by Bro. Beery, following the teachers' meeting. 
The church has a fund for the needy, kept up by taking offerings 
Sunday morning. Dec. 23 we enjoyed an interesting program ren- 
dered by children and adults. The Sunday-school is making a special 
effort on the first Sunday of each month to take an offering to help 
support Bro. Moy Gwong in China.— Mrs. Claude Cripe, Rossville, 
Ind., Jan. 9. 

Sugar Creek church met in council Dee. 26, with Bro. L. C. Blicken- 
staff in charge, Sunday-school officers were chosen for the year, 
with Bro. Harry Bollinger, superintendent. Other committees were 
appointed. Bro. Win, Monahan wa3 elected church trustee to serve 
six years.— Lizzie Emley, South Whitley. Ind., Jan. 11. 

Union City.— Jan. 13 Bro. Snyder, of North Manchester, preached 
two Inspiring sermons for us. Interest is growing in the various 
activities of the church. A song and prayer service will be held 
Wednesday evening, in preparation for our coming revival.— Mrs. 
Ruth Ruff, Union City, Ind.,. Jan. 14. 

IOWA 

Indian Creek church met in business session with Eld. E. D. 
Fiscel presiding. We chosen officers for the year: Bro. Fiscel, elder; 
Sister Bertha Beal, " Messenger " agent and correspondent. On ac- 
count of the threatening weather Bro. Fiscel did not remain over 
Sunday. On Thanksgiving we Jiad a basket dinner at the church, 
after which our pastor, Bro. O. E. Slater, gave us a very interest- 
ing talk. A collection of $14 was taken for the Near East Relief. 
We also sent an offering of $8 to the Child Rescue work at 
Ankcny, Iowa.— Bessie M. Enfield, Maxwell, Iowa, Jan. 5. 

KANSAS 

Bloom.— Our church and Sunday-school are progressing very nicely. 
We are having some very interesting sermons from different breth- 
ren from McPherson College every two weeks. Prof. C. S. Morris 
was here in November and gave a lecture on the planets, and also 
preached for us on Sunday. Dec. 30 a Christmas program was given 
by the children. An offering was taken and several baskets were 
filled for the needy of our community.— Lily Hatcher, Bloom, Kans.. 
Jan. 13. 

Fredonia church met in council Dec. 29, with Bro. E. M. Reed, 
of Galesburg, presiding. Being without a resident minister, Bro. 
Rccd was elected elder for the coming year. Church officers were 
elected also, with the writer, church clerk and "Messenger" agent.— 
Mrs. Flaura Reed, Fredonia, Kans.. Jan. 7. 

Grenola church met in council Jan. 5. Church, Sunday-school 
and Christian Workers' officers were elected with Bro. D. P. Schechter, 
elder. Bro. Frank Wyant will preach again for us the coming year. 
Sister Ida Logsdon was chosen superintendent of the Sunday-school; 
Bro. Walter Wyant, president of Christian Workers' Meeting. Our 
Sunday-school report for the year showed that we have had an 
average attendance of 82; Bibles brought to class, 580; total chapters 
read, 18.435; memory verses for primarv class, 853; number of con- 
versions, IS.-Katc Williams, Grenola, Kans., Jan. 7. 

Independence.— Our church enjoyed having Eld. A. C. Daggett with 
us the last two Sundays. He has been chosen elder and has given 
us much encouragement. Jan. 6 he -preached an able sermon on the 
subject. "The People Had a Mind to Work." Bro. W. H. Miller 
preached In tbe evening from"the subject, " The Messenger." In the 
afternoon a workers' conference was held. Monday afternoon we 
had a called council. Various committees were appointed. We have 
a Teacher-training Class that meets each Tuesday evening. Our regu- 
lar prayer meeting is 'held each Thursday. In our last report it was 
stated that Eld. J. S. Clark was our assistant elder. It should have 
been Eld. W. H. Miller. He is to have charge of the work the same 
as before in Bro. Daggett's absence. Our sisters have an Aid 
Society, which meets every Wednesday afternoon at the church.— 
Pella Carson. Independence, Kans,, Jan. 11. 

Lawrence church keld its quarterly meeting Dec. 29, with Eld. Geo. 
W. Burgin presiding. AH church officers were elected: the writer, 
clerk and "Messenger" agent; Bro. T. Mason, member of the Board 
of Religious Education; Bro. W. A. Schaal, Sunday-school superin- 
tendent. All other officers of the school are chosen by the Board 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



61 



which also makes a slate for Christian Workers' officers. The work is 
moving along nicely. In the early spring Brother and Sister Austin, 
of MoPherson, will be with us in an evangelistic meeting.— Mrs. B. S. 
Katherman, Lawrence, Kans., Jan. 11. 

Wade Branch church met in regular business session Dec. 16. Church 
and Sunday-school officers were elected: Bro. R. W. Myers, church 
clerk; Sister- Walter Mason. "Messenger" agent; trustees, Brethren 
Wingert, Miller and H. E. Crist; Sunday-school superintendent, Bro. 
Walter Miller; Sister Corda Crist, president of Christian Workers. 
Bro. A. D. Crist is our elder for another year. The church decided 
to have preaching services every Sunday night.— Mrs. R. W. Myers, 
Paola, Kara;., Jan. 11. 

White Rock church met in council. Dec. 29. with the pastor, Bro. 
\. L. Patrick, presiding. The following officers were elected for 
the" coming year: Church clerk, Edith Barringer; "Messenger" 
agent and correspondent, the writer; Sunday-school superintendent, 
Orviltc Switxer; missionary secretary, Edith Barringer. The mat- 
ter of adopting the budget for the year 1924 was deferred until 
a later date with the hope of having more of the members present. 
We held our second annual Rally Day on Oct. 28. Eld. D. A. 
Crist. Cf Quinter, Kans., was the speaker of the day and gave 
us three very inspiring and uplifting messages. Before the even- 
ing service a chorus rendered "Where Love Is," a wonderful mes- 
sage in story and song. There were large crowds at all services. 
Nov. 27 Brethren Ray Wagoner and Frank Sargent gave an in- 
teresting illustrated lecture on the "Equipment and Activities of 
McPheraon College." They solicited several of the members to 
help the college raise their required endowment. The "Truth 
Seekers," the young married people's class, put on a play Dec. 
14. "An Old-Fashioned Mother." The play had a wonderful moral. 
besides plenty of clean, wholesome fun. An offering amounting to 
over $27 was taken at the close of the play, which will be used 
lor missions. The Sunday-school has been sending the third Sun- 
day's offering to the Emergency Fund.— Mrs. Anna Patrick, Love- 
well, Kans., Jan. 5. 

MARYLAND 

Brownsville.— Our Sunday-school gave a Christmas program Dec. 
23. Brother and Sister LeRoy Dudrow, of Blue Ridge College, gave 
interesting talks. An offering of $103 was taken for the Emergency 
Fund. Christmas exercises were held at West Brownsville on Christ- 
inas night, and at South Brownsville on Thursday night following. 
Bro. Wilbur S. Jennings has been reelected Sunday-school superin- 
tendent.— Mrs. Nellie S. Kaetzel, Brownsville, Md., Jan. 12. 

Meadow Branch.— Sister Lydia Taylor, of the Dress Reform Com- 
mittee, gave two of her inspiring talks Jan. 9 and 10 to interested 
.ludiences in our Westminster house. Our Sunday-schools have been 
lully reorganized for the year for the furtherance of their splendid 
work.— Wm. E. Roop, Westminster, Md., Jan. 11. 

Mt. Zion church met Jan. 6, at which time Sunday-school officers 
were elected for the year, with Bro. John Wishard superintendent. 
Our Sunday-school and Christian Workers' Meeting are increasing in 
attendance and interest. We are now in the midst of a very inter- 
esting series of meetings conducted, by Bro. G. S. Batzcl. who has 
been laboring earnestly. We are having good attendance, with splen- 
did interest.— Mrs. W. F. Cartce, Boonsboro, Md., Jan. 13. 

MICHIGAN 

Beavcrtcm church met in council Dec. 8, with Eld. Perry Mc- 
Kimmy presiding. ■ The following church officers were elected for 
the year: Elder, Perry Arnold; clerk, Ethel Whitmcr; "Messenger" 
::Kent, Elma Rau; church correspondent, Jos. Van Dyke. A com- 
mittee of arrangements for the District Meeting, to be held here 
in 1924, was elected. Our elder, Bro. Arnold, and his wife are 
spending the winter in Virginia. We miss him very much, es- 
pecially since Bro. Geo. Killian has been conducting services at 
the Stone schoolhouse each Sunday for some time. He recently 
closed a two weeks' meeting there with seven converts. This 
is a promising branch of our church and will have nineteen members, 
with these new converts. They conduct a fine Sunday-school and 
Christian Workers' Meeting. Dec. 23 we enjoyed a splendid sermon 
by Bro. Oscar Stern from the Harlan church. In the evening 
a Christmas program was presented to a large audience. The 
Sunday-school took a special collection for the Mission Board the 
same day, which totaled §110.66. The Christian Workers' Society 
also gave $20.81. At the council it was decided to continue the 
>oung people's department of the Sunday-school, organized six 
months ago. — Joseph Van Dyke, Beavcrton, Mich., Jan. 7. 

Sugar Ridge church met in members' meeting Jan. 12. Various of- 
ficers were elected— a trustee, two members on our Nominating Com- 
mittee and one on the Auditing Committee. Probably the most vital 
uf all was electing a Ministerial Board, as called for by Annual 
Meeting. D. O. Flory, Wm.. Saxton and the writer are the three 
members. We pledged to raise $150 for District missions; we have 
some to raise on our 1923 apportionment. We expect to have our 
revivals in July or August. The secretary of the Sisters' Aid gave 
a very interesting report of their work for 1923,— H. C. Royer, Cus- 

'"■ Mi ° h - ""■ "• MISSOURI 

Fairview church met in council Jan. 12, with Eld, J. B. Hylton 
presiding. Bro. Hylton was elected elder for the ensuing year; Sister 
Nettie Cline, clerk; the writer, correspondent and " Messenger " 
a ? ent- We chose a committee to make arrangements for the District 
Meeting.— Mrs. J. B. Hylton, Ava, Mo., Jan. IS. 

Warrensburg congregation enjoyed an interesting meeting and love 
least Thanksgiving Day. During November we met in council and 
elected the following officers for the year: Bro. E. A. Markey, elder; 
"w " amp ' l er » c!erk and Sunday-school superintendent; the writer, 

Messenger " correspondent. Dec. 23 the young people gave an 
interesting missionary Christmas program. The missionary collection 
was $51. At our regular council Jan. id we 'decided to secure a summer 
pastor during June, July and August. More interest is being mani- 
fested m our church work recently,— Rowena Wampler, Warrensburg, 

NEBRASKA 

Beatrice.— Our recent revival effort resulted in a number of ad- 
ditions to our membership: twelve were received by letter, five 
were baptized, one was reclaimed and one awaits baptism. A Teacher- 
training class is being organized which will make our Sunday-school 
a standard school. Special attention is being paid to the Sunday 
evening music and Bro. Harold Beam has been secured to take charge 
»f this part 6f the service.— Mary Neuman, Beatrice, Nebr., Jan. 9. 



Mo., Ja, 



NEW MEXICO 

Miami.— We met in council Jan. S. The church officers were elected. 
Some of the old officers were retained, while a number of the new 
workers just brought into the church were given a definite task. 
Bro. Frank Gibson was elected elder; Frank Fox, clerk; Mrs. Gibson, 
" Messenger " agent. Our church feels the loss of a number who 
have moved away, but we arc hopefully looking for others to 
join us. Bro. Replogle, our school superintendent, gives us a mes- 
sage each Sunday morning. We had a Christmas program and at 
the close an offering of $32.63 was taken.— Saloma Lapp, Miami, N. 

M"., *>"• »• OHIO 

Akron.— The Young People's Division of Northeastern Ohio held its 
first annual conference at Akron Dec. 28-30. The object of the con- 
ference was to create an interest in developing the fourfold life of the 
young people of our church. The conference was well planned and an 
excellent program was rendered. A fine cooperation existed between 
the older and younger members of the various churches. The spirit 
of worship was manifested in the conference through song and de- 
votional service. The fellowship supper served by the members of 
the Akron church gave a chance for the social side. After supper a 
program with recreation for all was given by the various groups 
and their leaders. As the church of tomorrow depends upon the 
young people of today, it is our object to set an example in the 
development of the fourfold life which will be a guide to those who 
follow and a blessing to the church. The conference was honored by 
the presence of A. R. Eikenberry and L. W. Shultz, of Manchester 
College.— G. C. Kauffman, Akron, Ohio, Jan. 12. 



BrookvlUe church met in council Dee. 19. with Bro. J W Fidler 
presiding. Two letters were granted. Our Sunday-school officers 
for the ycar W ere elected with Bro. Vern Dull superintendent. The 
Brookville church had the -pleasure of entertaining the Sunday- 
school Teachers Institute this year. It certainly was a spiritual 
feast for every one who attended. The instructors. Brethren Kurtz 
and Myers, came with wonderful messages. Dec. 30 Bro. J. W 
h idler conducted installation scvices for the Sunday-school teachers. 
Alter listening for four days to such able teachers, and learning 
about Jesus as the Great Teacher, we feel our inefficiency most 
Keenly We arc glad that provision is made for such instruction.- 
Mrs. Arthur Hoy, Brookville, Ohio. Jan. S. 

Canton i City.-Jan. 11 we met in council. A fire in the church Jan. 
<> made it necessary to meet at the parsonage. We hope to be back 
in our church by Jan. 20. A very large volume of business was 
transacted and in the opinion of our elder the program launched 
should result m very far-reaching consequences. The finance com- 
mittee has started what we believe will prove to be a successful 
campaign to wipe out the parsonage debt by next October. The 
budget for local current expenses calls for $3,197. to be raised by the 
weekly envelope offerings. The money for Forward Movement and 
District mission work will be raised by special monthly offerings. 
Ihe Sunday-school superintendent gave a very comprehensive report 
for the Board of Religious Education— full of hope and inspiration. 
The pastor, I. J. Gibson, gave a written report of the five and one- 
half months of his service. He said that four had been added by 
baptism during that time, and suggested that the church unite in an 
effort to add at least ten more by Aug. 1. the close of his first year's 
work. Tithing also was commended to the membership. The follow- 
ing recommendation was passed: "It is recommended that the pastor, 
the Forward Movement Committee (composed of the Sunday-school 
superintendent, one member of the finance committee, and one mem- 
ber of the missionary committee), the chairman of the deacon board, 
the president of the Brotherhood, the president of the Sisterhood 
and the president of the Young People's Division, meet once each 
quarter to pray and consider plans for furthering Christ's kingdom." 
A pastoral letter, containing church news, has been mailed to the 
members each week for the past three weeks. The matter of pub- 
lishing some kind of a church paper at frequent intervals was placed 
in the hands of the Forward Movement committee. Our Christmas 
program, Dec. 23, was a success. The Sunday-school offering for the 
Emergency Fund was $118.— Mrs. Wm. Wade, Canton, Ohio, Jan. 12. 

Dayton.— Dec. 3 Bro. M. J. Broughcr, of Grccnsburg. Pa., began a 
meeting which continued for three weeks, closing Sunday, Dec. 23. 
All through the meetings the interest and attendance were very good. 
Bro. Brougher preached Spirit-filled sermons and fifty people came 
forward as the invitations were given. Several new families have 
been added to our membership. Our faithful pastor and his com- 
panion arc working hard to build up the work here, and this makes 
over 250 that have been added to our membership since their com- 
ing to us about three yea t s ago. We have three Christian Workers' 
Societies, one for the adults, one for the senior young people and one 
for the juniors. These various groups are busy and have their sep- 
arate programs each Sunday evening, previous to the preaching hour. 
One Society is to give a public program each month. Our Sunday- 
school is growing nicely under the leadership of Bro. McPherson, 
our superintendent. During our revival 10,481 chapters were reported 
as read. At a recent counc^ the church set apart Bro. Lester 
Slauter, one of our young men, as a minister— Mary E. Miller, Day- 
ton, Ohio. Jan. 13. 

Ft. McKinley.— Our young people gave us a splendid Christmas 
cantata Sunday evening, Dec. 23. On the following Monday even- 
ing the children rendered their interesting program. The main 
feature was " The White Gifts for the King," a pageant play in 
which everybody took part, bringing gifts for the poor, all wrapped 
in white. On Jan. 4, the D. Y. B. Class, one of the largest or- 
ganized classes of our school, elected their officers for the year. 
Mrs. Rebecca Grammar, being about the oldest member in our 
congregation and a very faithful attendant, was presented with 
flowers from this class for a birthday as well as a Christmas 
present. The question of a class song having been up for dis- 
cussion at a previous meeting, some of its members took upon 
themselves to compose one that would be suitable.— Albert C. Lyday, 
Ft. McKinley, Ohio, Jan. 6. 

Lower Miami.— Our yearly Sunday-school report was given Jan. 13. 
Each class gave a report of its activities, especially on attendance, 
contributions and verses memorized or chapters read. The total num- 
ber of chapters read was 51,195; average attendance, 111; contribu- 
tions, $749.36. The banner class was the Sisters' Bible Class, with 
12,855 chapters read and a total collection of $137.10; of this amount 
$29.36 was for missions and $66.66 for the Emergency Fund. To show 
the growth of the Sunday-scTiool, Bro. Ruble prepared a chart show- 
ing the activities of the school from 1887 to 1923. In 1887 the average 
attendance was 57, with a collection of $18.08. Our Sunday-school was 
organized a few years before that date, being one of the first rural 
Brethren schools in the Miami Valley; but no report of the first school 
was available. Brethren John M. Murry and S. Bock were the first 
superintendents.— Chas. C. Stebbins, Dayton, Ohio, Jan. 13. 

'Lower Stillwater. — Our Thanksgiving services were conducted by 
Eld. D. M. Garvcr. of Trotwood, Ohio. An offering of Sll was given 
to the Emergency Fund. Dec. 23 the Sunday-school rendered a 
Christmas program. Dec. 30 Eld. J. W. Fidler conducted the instal- 
lation service for the Sunday-school officers and teachers.— L. A. 
Bookwalter, Trotwood, Ohio, Jan. 7. 

Marion.— First church met in council Dec. 11, with Bro. David 
Byerly, our elder, presiding. The following officers were elected: 
Elder, David Byerly; clerk, W. F. Williams; corresponding secretary 
and " Messenger " agent, Mrs. R. R. Hatton; Sunday-school superin- 
tendent, Ellis Snider. The budget for 1924 was presented by the 
finance board and accepted. It was decided to raise our amount to 
pastoral support to the Home Mission Board $180. Sister Mary Cook, 
a licensed minister, was granted a permanent license. Eld. N. I. Cool, 
member of the Ministerial Committee of Northwestern Ohio, was 
present and cared for this matter. The interest and attendance in 
the Sunday-school and church has been exceptionally good during the 
past ycar, and all departments of the church have shown growth. 
Twenty -one have been added to the church during the past year. 
Christmas lime was observed by the Sunday-school giving a pro- 
gram Sunday morning, Dec. 23. In the evening a candle light serv- 
ice was held. The program consisted of ducts, solos, trio, readings, 
pantomime, and an address by the pastor. Bro. R. R. Hatton, on the 
subject, " The Story of a Man over 1,900 Years Old and Still Living." 
A collection of $30.92 was taken for the Emergency Fund. Two of our 
Sunday-school classes, have taken out share plans recently. A 
special missionary program will be rendered on the evening of 
Jan. 20. We expect to have Bro. V. F. Schwalra. of North Manchester, 
Ind., with us. for special services Jan. 19 and 20.— Mrs. R. R. Hatton, 
Marion, Ohio, Jan. 9. 

Poplar Ridge church met in quarterly council Dec. 26, with J. 
L. Guthrie presiding. Officers for the year were chosen: Bro. Guthrie, 
elder for another year; Wm, Steing as Sunday-school superintendent; 
" Messenger " agent, John Berkebile. The Christian Workers', Mis- 
sionary, and Temperance and Purity Committee work was put in 
the hands of one committee, thus making it a sort of committee 
on Christian Education and doing away with a number of com- 
mittees whose work necessarily overlaps. It was decided to call 
for Bro. A. M. Bashor, of Tennessee, to conduct our series of meet- 
ings for 1924. A series of meetings is now in progress at the 
south house, conducted by Bro. Jay Horn! sh.— Nora" Berkebile, Jewell, 
Ohio, Jan. 7. 

OREGON 

Newbcrg church met in called council Dec. 28. The report of the 
church visit was given by the deacons. We decided to hold a love 
feast, but the date was not set as we hope to hold a revival soon 
and have the love feast at the close. Bro. Barnctt induced the 
church to reconsider their vote for elder, taken at the regular council, 
at which time he had been chosen elder of the Newberg church. 
The vote was taken and Bro. J. A. Reed was selected in his stead.— 
Eliza J. Moore, Newberg, Ore., Jan. 11. 



PENNSYLVANIA 

Ambler church' met in council Jan. 4, with our pastor, Bro. H. 
K. Garman, in charge. Officers for the year were elected. Nov 18 
we had the pleasure of having the Men's Glee Club of Juniata Col- 
lege with us. They were greeted with a large audience, and the 
music was enjoyed very much. A union Thanksgiving service was 
held in our church. The sermon was preached by Rev. John E. 
Kine. ol the Lutheran church, who impressed the lesson of tbank- 
lulness for the many blessings received. Dec. 23 our Sunday- 
school rendered a splendid Christmas cantata, "The Rose of Beth- 
Iehcm."-Mrs. Elizabeth Hal tern an. Ambler, Pa„ Jan. 7. 

Bethaiiy.-Dcc. 30 we gave our White Gift program which was a 
success through the efforts of the young ladies of the church. The 
following Sunday evening the choir rendered a musical program, which 
was appreciated by everyone. Jan. 7 we started our evangelistic serv- 
ices, which will continue for two weeks, with Bro. John A. Robinson 
of Pleasant Hill, Ohio, in charge. So far we have had three con- 
verts and we know that through prayer and the wonderful inspira- 
lon of Bro. Robinsons sermons we will have many more before 
the meetings close.— Kathcrine Gotwals, Philadelphia, Pa., Jan. 15. 

J£?*SX < rV' g v B » i< ^ mCt in COuncil at the Cotlonw h °«« Dec. 31, 
with Eld. D. Y. Bnllhart presiding. Eld. Daniel Bowser held an 
election for presiding elder. Eld. D. Y. Brillhart was reelected 
for three years Three certificates were granted. Members were 
appointed on the Child Rescue. Temperance and Ministerial Com- 
mittees. The treasurers of the church, Sunday-school and other 
comm.ttccs reported a total collection of $4,339,19 for the year, 
lwcnty-e.ght were baptized, and seven died, making our membership 
on Jan. 1, 30S.-E. H. Lehman, Dallastown, Pa.. Jan. 5 mCmb " 8hlp 
East Petersburg congregation dedicated their new churchhousc at 
East Petersburg Nov, 18. Brethren I. W.. Taylor and R. P. Bucher 
preached the dedication sermon. The congregation received the mes- 

& V- ,. " ?°. C r representation of our members present. Bro. 

W. K- Conner, of Harnsburg. led the service of the evening. D«. 
our council at the East Petersburg house, with I 



Idcr in charge, presiding. The Salon go Sunday -sc'hoo I 
privilege of supporting a missionary in Hi,. fi-M _i.:_i 



M. G. 
sked 



field, which was 
sting a missionary 
the field.— S. Clyde 



granted. The East Petersburg school is 'all 
from our own school and later will support hi 
Weaver, East Petersburg, Pa.,*Jan. 14. 

.imn k ,r L ™7 Jft £ U T ^ a bUSine " m « tin « with "»' **" P«- 
off, -r's 7 ?"', W the yC3F W " e ClcCtcd - °« T Sunday-school 

others were also chosen at a Sunday-school business meeting, with 
Clarence Maust, superintendent.-Sallic E. Lichty, Elk Lick, p" 

n r f^n"'n TllC o M n 9i °u B , and Ir ° m Juniata Collc K c rendered a fine 
program Dec. 9. On the 23rd wc held our election for officers. Bro. 
Ira C Ilolsopptc was elected pastor; Bro. Chester England, Sunday. 
school superintendent; Bro. N, R. Stiffler, secretary of the church; 

wee* ,Sh C f r S" P0 ? d ,, n !i aec T" y - A " olhcr "*«ssary officers 
were elected and installed at the morning service, Dec. 30, by Eld. 
J. fa Hersl.berger On Christmas Eve a fine program was rendered 
by the faunday-school, at which time an offering of $143 50 wm re 
ceived for the Emergency Fund. Dec. 30 the Sisters' Aid gave an 
instructive missionary program and collected the rainy day bags. 
We have .had one i baptism since our last report. The church met in 
council Jan, 7. Reports were received from the different organii*. 
lions and plans were made for some needed improvements to our 
churchhoii Be. -Nancy Lashley, Everett, Pa., Jan. 10. 

Heldclbcrg.-Our Thanksgiving sermon was preached by Bro. 
Harvey Frantz, of Myerstown. An offering of $14 was lifted We 
held our council with Eld. John Herr presiding. Church and Sun- 
day-school officers were elected. It was decided to start a church 
endowment fund and a cemetery fund, money having already been 
contributed for both these funds. We also decided to hold a Bible 
Institute. Bro. Jacob Meyer, of Fredericksburg, preached for us 
Dec. 9. Our Sunday-school offering of Dec. 23 was sent to the 
General Mission Board.— Mary Dubble, Myerstown, Pa., Jan. 7. 

Hostetler church met in business session Jan. 5. with Eld. J W 
VVeighley presiding. Officers for the year were elected, with H Q 
Rhodes, elder; Bro. W. J. Shultz, secretary; Sister Grace Albright! 

Messenger ' agent; the writer, correspondent. The Sunday-school 
was reorganized in October, with Sister Grace Albright superin- 
tendent.— Mac Hosteller. Sand Patch, Pa., Jan. 11. 

Huntingdon church met in council Jan. 7. The newly elected church 
and Sunday-school officers were installed Sunday morning. The 
official board organized, electing Bro. A. W. Dupler, chairman. They 
presented .their recommendations, which were discussed and dis- 
posed of satisfactorily. Most of the time was spent on plans for 
the addition we expect to build. The committee gave a report, and 
asked for suggestions. The pastor called attention to the evangel- 
istic services beginning Jan. 20. We hope Bro. Milton Swigart will 
be able to come. One has been baptized since the last report. The 
peace conference, held in the college chapel, was indeed interesting. 
Hearing the discussions, impressed upon us the importance of teach- 
ing peace in homes, churches and schools in a more businesslike way 
than has been done heretofore. If the suggestions made by the 
speakers be put in operation there will be worth-while work done 
this year.— Eleanor J. Brumbaugh, Huntingdon, Pa., Jan. 11, 

Hooversville church met in council Jan. 5. Bro. E. M. Detwiler 
was reelected elder; Bro. Kenneth Koontz, clerk; Bro. C. B. Zim- 
merman, "Messenger" agent; the writer, correspondent. Delegates 
to District Meeting arc Sister Annie Koontz and Emma Blough; 
delegate to Annual Meeting, our pastor, Bro. F. D. Anthony. Our 
Sunday-school superintendent is Bro- Harry Beam. Our school 
is progressing nicely. Wc rendered a Christmas program on Sun- 
day • evening, Dec. 23, which was very interesting. Our pastor 
preaches at the Sugar Grove church twice a month. ' The Sunday- 
school is a union one. Grandma Blough, the mother of our mis- 
sionary, J. M, Blough, of India, worships with us at Hoovcrsville. 
She is staying' with her daughter. Sister Amy Beam, and we enjoy 
having her with us. She celebrated her eighty-ninth birthday on 
Christmas Day.— Blanche M. Hcrshbcrger. Hooversville, Pa., Jan. 7. 

Lititz church met in council Jan. 9.. The following officers were 
elected for the year: Elder, J. W. G. Hershey; Sunday-school super- 
intendent, H. R. Gibbcl; Christian Workers' president, H. M. Eberly. 
Two certificates were granted. Our membership now is 242. The 
church decided to make an annual contribution equivalent to one 
dollar per member to Elizabcthtown College, and to continue taking 
monthly missionary collections for the Emergency Fund. The Sunday- 
school rendered an interesting program Christmas evening.— Florence 
B Gibbcl, Lititz, Pa., Jan. 11. 

Martiniburg.— Nov. 4 Bro. Jos. C'apper, of Yellow Creek, was with 
us, at which time $247 was raised to pay on the orphanage purchased 
by the Middle District of Pennsylvania, located at Martinsburg. Our 
Thanksgiving offering amounted to $83, to be given for missions. 
Dec. 16 Bro. Dupler. of Juniata College, was with us in the interest 
of the Anti-Saloon League. A program was rendered Christmas Eve 
to a large and appreciative audience. The offering ol $74 will also go 
to missions. Our Sunday-school superintendent for 1924 is Bro. G. B. 
Wineland. At present our congregation, with the other churches of 
the town, is engaged in u united evangelistic campaign of two weeks.— 
Mrs. L. R. Holsingcr, Martinsburg, Pa., Jan. 11. 

Midway.— Nov. 1 Sister Kathryn Zieglcr was with us at the Corn- 
wall house and gave an interesting talk on customs and religions 
of India. Nov. 11 Bro. H. H. Nye, of Elizabethtown, preached an 
impressive sermon on " Christian Growth." A workers' library has 
been added to our Sunday-school library, which should prove ■ 
great help. Dec. 15 Bro. Chas. H. Ziegler. of Richland, began a 
series of meetings at the Midway house and continued until Jan. 1. 
He preached very earnest and inspiring sermons. The interest 
and attendance were good throughout the meeting?. Two stood' 
for Christ. Dec. 30 our Sunday-school lifted an offering for the 
Emergency Fund.— Elizabeth B. Nolt. Lebanon, Pa., Jan. 8. 

(Continued on Page 64) . ' .j 



62 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



NOTES FROM AHWA, DANGS 

(Continued from Page S9) 

after the herds are brought home. But the important 
thing of the day is the ceremony which will reveal to us 
whether the coming year will bring to us good or evil. 
You see we put this egg and chick, which this boy is 
bringing, right down in the middle of the road and all the 
village cattle will be driven over them. We all stand 
around to watch what happens. If neither egg nor 
chick is harmed our village will have good luck all through 
the coming year. If both are crushed there will be much 
trouble and sickness, loss and death. If only one is harmed 
then there will be some good luck and some ill luck." 

"But when you find that evil is to befall you, what 
remedy do you seek?" we asked the old woman who acted 
as spokesman. Sadly she shook her head, saying: "To 
whom he will God sends good, and to whom he will he 
sends evil. How can there be any remedy for the trouble 
and sorrow that comes to us? We just must suffer the 
things that come." 

And this is all the comfort or help that those who know 
not our Lord Jesus can receive. What a challenge to all 
who have learned that the living Son of God is the one 
unfailing remedy for all the ills of life! Alice K. Ebey. 

Ahwa, Dangs, Dec. 1, 1923. 



A LETTER OF APPRECIATION AND A CALL FOR AN 
ITALIAN WORKER 

In Junc> 1923, Sister Ruth Beahm came to Windber to do 
missionary work among the Italians. A good Italian sister, 
Carlo di Muzio, accompanied her on her visits into the 
various Italian homes. She organized an English class, 
also a Sunday-school class. Sister di Muzio assisted in 
both of these. In September, when Sister Beahm left for 
Blue Ridge College again, Sister di Muzio, with the aid 
of another sister, continued the work two months longer. 
The greater part of this good work has been discontinued 
for the present. We are hoping that in the near future 
we may learn of some available person who is able to 
speak the Italian language to carry on the work at this 
■place. Hence the occasion for writing the following letter, 
which was read at our last quarterly council, with the 
request that it be sent to the "Gospel Messenger" for 
publication: Mrs. C. E. Replogle. 

Dear Brothers and Sisters: I wish I could talk the EngUsh 
language so that I could express my ideas in your presence. But 
since I can not do this because I do not know the Enghsh language 
very well, and it is very hard for me to explain myself, I have 
decided to write yon this letter. 

I will first of all thank you for what yon have done lor us 
and for your interest in us. Not only will I thank you for our- 
selves but for all the Italians that have attended Engl.sh classes. 
I have heard them make this remark: ■'These people arc doing a 
lot for us and we can only bow our heads and go away without 
being ahlc to thank them." Oh, yes, I have noticed that the 
Italians appreciate what you have done for them. You have done 
much (or the Italians; even though they have high sentiments 
of thanks toward you, still they are tied down by superstition. 

Oh, if I could give my life for the Italians! I would not only 
for the Italians, but for all those who do not know the truly 
Christian religion. But I must remain in the vocatioo to which 
God has called me. Each of you can realize that a mother of 
nine children can do no outside work. 

Until a month ago we have gone out visiting in the Italian 
homes, and have observed that when we did so. more people came 
to Sunday-school. But since we do not go out visiting the attendance 
has gradually diminished. When we visited them in their homes 
they were encouraged. But now they have been discouraged by 
the enemy. If they would read the Bible they would be more 
courageous, and would not submit to the enemy so easily. But 
they know the Bible as the Book of heretics, or Protestants, and 
it is a sin to read it. 

Italians who have been in America for many years have heard 
that the Bible is a good Book, but they do not know its con- 
tents, and therefore do not have strength to win over the enemy; 
for they have no armor of God, like Paul says: "Put on the whole 
armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of 
the devil " (Eph. 6: II), Is the Spirit of God weaker than the 
spirit of tbe devil? Certainly not. Oh, if you only knew a little 
of all the superstition in which they believe I To you who love 
God I say, .from your hearts there would come forth a loud cry 
of pity lor the Italians. They are the same as sheep without a 
shepherd; each has taken his own way. They are members of a 
church that calls itself Christian, but is without life, because 
instead of having Christ as their Head they have the pope. 

O brethren and sisters, let us answer the challenge of our Christ, 
who said: "Go ye and preach the gospel unto all nations of the 
world." But before we go to those iar away we must begin at 

Do you remember the lost sheep? After it was found the shep- 
herd with the neighbor rejoiced. Our Savior says : " I say unto 
you, Even so there shall be joy in heaven over one sinner that 
repenteth more than over ninety and nine righteous persons who 
need no repentance." 

Dear brethren, let us remember our Savior, who gave his life for 
us and for them. They are lost sheep who do not know the way. 
We should unite our efforts and bring them back from the idol 
to the true God. 

Oh, what joy if we had a man that fears God and is not 
ashamed to preach the Gospel in the streets! Oh, what greater 
joy if he could speak their own language so they could under- 
stand! 

If all the churches in the United States that love God would 
preach the true Word to the people who do, not know God, they 
would be saved from eternal condemnation, and there would be 
more peace in this country. I pray to my God and your God that 
he may send a servant to us to unite all the lost sheep. 

Do yon know that he who has converted a sinner from his 
way has saved a soul from eternal death, and shall hide a multitude 
of sins? "Let him know that he who converteth the sinner from 
the error of his way shall save a soul from death and shall hide 
a multitude of sins " (Jas. S: 20). 

May our Father make you understand the need of the Gospel 
among the Italians. Brethren, give them the true Bread of Life 
I believe in the Almighty God, that he can answer my prayer 
I call this to the attention not of the Windber church only but 
to all the true Christian churches. Mr> ^^ ^ UMio 

Windber, Pa., Jan. 1. 



FROM SERVICE TO REWARD - 

Tabilhe Jane Hawk Guthrie was an only daughter of Jacob 
and Sidney Hawk. She was born in Allen County, near LaFayettc, 
Ohio, June 18. 1851, and died Dec. 7, IM3, aged 72 years. 5 months 
and 19 days. She was united in marriage with William R. Guthrie 
Feb. 4. 1877. To this union were horn ten children, all of whom 
nre living except one. who died in infancy. 

Early in life she accepted Jesus as her Savior, and about forty- 
five years ago, with her husband, she was received by baptism 
into the Church of the Brethren, where she served loyally and 
faithfully until death. The words of her Master, " Behold, I am 
among you as one who serveth," was her motto in life, for truly 
she " came not to be ministered unto but to minister." Her Chris- 
tianity was not a mere formalism, but it was life, and was mani- 
fested in all of her relations with those with whom she came in 
contact. -She was a faithful wife, a kind and loving* mother, and 
was loved by all who knew her. She leaves to mourn her loss, 
her husband, nine children: Joseph L., Jacob H,, Charles V., Bessie 
L.. Mrs. Lulu N. Roberts, Mrs. Sarah J. Shulaw (all living in the 
same community), James A., of Swanton, Ohio, William R., Jr., of Ada, 
Ohio, and John P., of Detroit, Mich. There arc thirty-seven grand- 
children and one great-grandchild. She also has one brother living, 
John Hawk, of LaFayette, Ohio. 

It is a significant fact that all of the children and childrcn-in- 
law are Christians, and all save one daughter-in-law ore members" 
of the Church of the Brethren. It was on her - suggestion that 
her husband came with her into the church, and when, in 1890, 
he was called into the ministry, it was her sympathy, helpful- 
ness and encouragement that made it possible for him to become 
of such great service in the Kingdom of our Master. Father Guthrie 
did a great deal of evangelistic work throughout Indiana, Ohio 
and Michigan, and she invariably accompanied him on these trips, 
administering to his necessities in such a manner as only a faith- 
ful wife can. 

Great satisfaction came into her life in the fact that two of 
her sons actively cngaued in ministerial work. 

Father and Mother Guthrie were among the prime movers in 
the organization of the County Line church, near LaFayette, Ohio, 
he having done most of the preaching at that place for many years. 
She led the song service during the early life of that church, and 
in so doing performed a most important function in .its early ex- 
istence. 

In the home her light shone out brightly. It was there that 
she gave the best that woman can give in loving service and 
care for her family, and not for her family alone, as there was 
never a time in her married life up to five years ago when there 
was not some one outside of her own immediate family to receive 
from her the loving ministrations of a mother. 

Detroit, Mich. j ohn P. Guthrie. 



SISTERS' AID SOCIETIES 



Z) 



BAGLEY, lOWA.-We held 13 all-day and 29 half-day meetings 
with an average attendance of S. We quilted 7 quilts, tied and 
quilted 8 comforts and did several days' sewing. We held one 
needlework and bake sale, which brought $47.55. We received for 
work and comforts sold, $28,70; free will offerings, $24.72; expenses 
for circle work, $10.31; our donations ($44.26) went to the Orphans* 
Home at Ankcny, Iowa; to Industrial School, Va.; to color<$l school 
in Prentice, Miss.; to Sister Nettie Senger in China, and to home 
mission work. Officers: Sister Stella Knight, President; Sister Helen 
Krueger, Vice-President; Sister Leota Rometsch, Superintendent; 
the writer, Secretary-Treasurer.— Alma E. Austin, Bagley, Iowa, 
Jan. 6. 

BAREVILLE, PA.— We held 16 meetings with an average attendance 
of 9. We gave $25 to the Virginia Industrial School; to a widow 
sister, $13; two comforts to needy; 67 articles of clothing to Nelie 
Wampler, value $28.82. Our work consisted of quilting and making 
children's garments. Carried over, $12.35; receipts, $56.87; paid out 
$40.17; on band, $29.05. Officers: President, Lottie A. Sheaffer; Vice- 
President, Mollie G. Myers; Secretary-Treasurer, the writer.— Anna 
R. Good, Ephrata, Pa., Jan. 7. 

BEAVER CREEK. VA. (Senior Aid).— We held 12 meetings with an 
average attendance of 8. Our work consisted of making prayer- 
coverings, quilts, comforts, scarfs, etc. Our Society and the Junior 
Society served dinner at one sale, clearing $21.15. Carried over, 
$13.37; free will offering, $46.96; .work done, $111.97; total, $158.93. 
We gave $65 to Beaver Creek church; $43 to Greene County School; 
$5 to mission worker; $4 to Orphanage; $5 to ministerial fund; total, 
$158.56. Officers: President, Sister Nannie J. Miller; Vice-President, 
Sister Lydia Evers; Secretary -Treasurer, the writer.— Delphia S. 
Click, Bridgewatcr, Va., Jan. 8. 

BEECH GROVE, OHIO.— We held 14 all-day meetings with an 
average attendance of 6. Receipts, $97.80; expenses, $50.70, for church 
carpet, church cistern, Greene County School and Bethany Hospital. 
We made sun-bonnets, sewed in homes by the day, served sale 
dinners; sent clothing and eatables to Hastings Street Mission jor 
Thanksgiving. Officers: Superintendent, Sister Frances Hollingerj 
President, Sister Edna Hollinger; Secretary, the writer.— Elm ina B. 
Royer, New Madison, Ohio, Jan. 7. 

BETHLEHEM, VA.-We held 10 meetings with an average attend- 
ance of 11. Our work consisted of quilting 9 quilts, tacking S com- 
forts, making 90 prayer-coverings and other articles. Receipts, 
$97.20. We gave $13 to Greene County School; $1 to District Secretary; 
gave articles to needy and did sewing; paid for material, $28.91; car- 
ried over, $61.05; balance, $115.35. Officers: President, Sister Cora 
Bowman; Vice-President, Sister Cora Peters; Secretary -Treasurer, 
the writer.— Mrs. M. A. Bowman, Boone Mill, Va., Jan. 3. 

CANTON, ILL. (Coal Creek).— Carried over, $24.34; receipts, $231.72; 
total. $256.06; expenses, $217.86; balance, $38.20. Wc held 36 
all-day and 7 half-day meetings; average attendance, 7; total visitors, 
76. Offerings. $26.55; dues, $8.35. We quilted 7 quilts. $20.30; made 
a comfort and sold it for $4.50; 8 comforts, $6; 5 days' plain sewing, 
$9; two bonnets, $6.50; 2 sunbonnets, 70 cents; 25 coverings, $7.70; 
donated 18 coverings; sent a comfort and 2 quilts to Old Folks' 
Home, Girard (the Junior Aid also sent one comfort); 2 boxes of 
clothing to Russia; to Industrial School. Va., $10; District Secre- 
tary, $1; to O. F. Helm, $5; church treasury, $40; 3 food sales and 
2 bazaars, $96.77; sold vanilla, $39.15; paid $16 for 2 pulpit chairs; 
toward piano, $53.24; offering for revival, >15. Officers: President, 
Pearl Rohrcr; Vice-President, Etta Johnson; Secretary-Treasurer, 
Marie Johnson; Superintendent, Susie Van Syckle.— Mrs. Jesse L. 
Walter, Canton, HI., Jan. 7. 

CLEAR CREEK, IND.— Wc held 5 meetings; average attendance, 6. 
Our work consisted of making comforters, sheets and pillowslips. 
Carried over, $55.97; membership dues, $10.90; prayer-coverings, 
$5.30; donation, $1; sales, $140.20; market, $19.63; total receipts, $233. 
Expenditures: flowers, $14.15; to the sick, $25; prayer-coverings 
bought, $4.75; miscellaneous. $62.79; total, $106.69; balance, $126.31; 
$25 to the local church treasurer. Officers: President, Erne Lininger; 
Vice-President, Mertie Haines; Secretary -Treasurer, the under- 
signed; Superintendent, "Mary Miller.— Dessic Miller, Huntington 
Ind., Jan. 4. 

EAST BERLIN, PA.— Wc held 26 half-day meetings and 15 extras; 
enrollment, 17; average attendance, 9. Our work consists of quilt- 
ing, making comforts, dust caps, bonnets and aprons. We sold 52 
calendars. We gave $10 to Italian Mission, Brooklyn; $5 to the 
Oakland church, Calif.; $2S jo the Child Rescue Home, Carlisle, Pa.; 
balance, $112.60. President, Sister Sarah Sunday; Vice-President, Sister 
Elizabeth Burgard; Superintendent, Sister Alice Brown; Secretary- 
Treasurer, the writer.— Emma J. Miller, East Berlin, Pa., Jaji. 7. 
EEL RIVER, IND.— Wc held 12 all-day meetings with an average 
attendance ol 13. Our work consisted of making garments, piecing 
and making comforters, 3 of which were given away with a 
, number of garments. Free will offerings, $22.60; garments sold, 
$24.94; sale dinners, $50.49; birthday offering, $6.90; sewing done and 



total receipts, $339.59. Donations: 
isters' fund, Bridgewater College, $1 
for library, 60 cents; Orphans' Horn 
dustrial School, Va., $50; rug for church. 



interest on money, $9.S1; total, $163.98. Paid for material, $35.69; 
toward Vacation Bible School, $10; to District Secretary, $26; for 
plants. $1.50; total. $73.19; balance, $90.79. Officers: Sister Alma 
Matson. President; Sister Emma Freed, Vice-President; Sister Erba 
Mctzger, Superintendent; the writer. Secretary -Treasurer.— Mattic 
Tridle, Claypool, Ind., Jan. 7. 

EPHRATA, PA.— We held 12 meetings with an average attend- 
ance of 12. Wc made 225 aprons. 70 quilts, 14 comforters, 134 sun- 
bonnets. 15 dust caps; sold Scripture calendars and 43 dozen post 
cards; served 31 meals. We gave $100 to Bethany Hospital, Chicago; 
$75 for Industrial School. Va.; $165 for professional services for an 
afflicted brother; $200 to world-wide missions; $190 for window screens; 
$100 to the church; $35 for charity; plants and fruits to sick and aged; 
7 baskets of fruit to Neffsville Home; $25 to Bethany Mission, Chicago; 
$10 to a student at Bethany; $10 to each of our five ministers for a 
Christmas gift. At present 58 members are enrolled who pay a 
monthly due of 5 cents. The Junior branch held 21 meetings; aver- 
age attendance, 4. They made dolls, pillow cases, handkerchiefs, 
towels and balls. Total receipts, $33.90; expenditures, $18,25; balance. 
$15.65. Sister Elva KilheTner is their superintendent. Carried over, 
$516.22; dues, $31.55; donations, $12.34; receipts, $1,426.78; expenditures, 
$1,727.43; balance, $259.46. Officers: President, Sister Emma Hilde- 
brand; Vice-President, Mary Buffcnmyer; Secretary, the writer; 
Treasurer, Alice Taylor.— Gertrude R. Shirk, Ephrata, Pa„ Jan. 8. 

FOUR MILE, IND.— We held 8 meetings; average attendance, 18. 
We had 4 markets. Carried over, $169.23; receipts, $258.62; paid out, 
$327.70. We gave $100 to start a building fund for the church; $65 
to Old Folks' Home, Middletown, Ind.; $35 to Virginia School; 
$15 to Hastings Street Mission; $10 to social service at Richmond; 
$19.90 for flowers and fruit for sick.— Ruth Edgeworth, Secretary- 
Treasurer, Liberty, Ind., Jan. 7. 

GARRETT, PA.-We held 43 half-day meetings; members en- 
rolled. 11; average attendance,. 4. The work consisted of building 
10 quilts (one a friendship quilt for which wc received $30), making 
a comfort, 18 bonnets and a number of garments; securing sub- 
scriptions for McCall's; selling polish. Each member made an apron 
on her birthday; the aprons were sold at the end of the year 
for 40 cents each. We donated $67 toward piano; carried over $6.08; 
receipts, $115.01; expenditures, $115.01. Officers: Mrs. L. A. Phen' 
nicie. President; Mrs. Frank Phennicie, Treasurer; the writer, Secre- 
tary.— Mrs. E. G. Fidlcr. Garrett, Pa., Jan. 9. 

HARRISONBURG, VA.-We held 12 meetings; enrollment, 14- 
averagc attendance. 10. Carried over, $274.94; receipts, $251.25. We 
gave $50 to foreign work; $4371 to home work; $224.67 to local 
church. Officers: Mrs. I. N. Fryc, President; Mrs. Mattic Fexierc 
Vice-President; Mrs. E. H. Wetsel, Secretary; Mrs. J. D. Wampler, 
Treasurer-Mrs. E. H. Wetsel, Harrisonburg, Va., Jan. 6. 

LINVILLE CREEK, VA.-We held 23 all-day and 2 special meetings; 
we have 24 members; average attendance, 10. We held 2 white sales, 
$110; served lunch at 3 sales, $91; for prayer-coverings, $12.20; articles 
offerings. ^$20-66; birthday fees, $5.22; donation, $4.36; 
ian sufferers, $25; young min- 
Old Folks' Home. $10; book 
$15; Japanese relief, $10; In- 
— , $6; District Secretary, $1; 
District missions, $25; General Mission Board, %2S; pulpit Bible, $17 47- 
toward song books, $5; toward electric lights. $23.10; box to Orphans' 
Home, $16.55; box of clothing to Near East Relief, $44; clothing and 
comfort tops to Old Folks' Home, $4.35; food and clothing to Orphans' 
Home, $7.55; miscellaneous, $14.12; balance, $10230. Officers: President 
the writer; Vice-President, Sister Mary Humbert; Secretary, Sister 
Nelie Wampler; treasurer. Sister Florence Kline.— Mamie K. Myers 
Broadway, Va., Jan. 7. 

LOCUST GROVE, MD.-We held 12 meetings with an average at- 
tendance of 15. Wc made and sold prayer-coverings, garments, bon- 
nets, aprons, and pieced quilt-tops. Carried over, $18.46; sales $119 10- 
dues, $12.05; donations. $8.42. We paid out $93.01 for merchandise! 
missionary work, knives, forks and spoons for the church, etc • 
balance, $26.09. We have a quantity of material and a number of 
articles on hand. Officers: President, Sister Bertha Williar- Vice- 
President, Sister Mamie Garver; Treasurer. Sister Margaret' Klein- 
Secretary, the writer.— Cleta Schneider, Mt. Airy, Md., Jan. 10. 

MARION, OHIO.-We held twelve regular and four all-day meet- 
ings; average attendance, 5. Receipts, $151.00; paid out, $118,04; bal- 
ance, $33.05. Our work consisted of making aprons, bonnets, caps. 
children's clothing, prayer-coverings and comforts. We held 
ind sewing sales. Officers: President, Sister Alma Snider; 
.Vice-President, Sister Naomi Hatton; Treasurer, Sister Lucy Atkin- 
son; Superintendent, Sister Florence Dildine; Secretary, the writer.- 
Mrs. Grace Holler, Marion, Ohio, Jan. 10. 

MORRILL, KANS.-We held 51 regular meetings and 1 special; en- 
rollment, 15. Received for 19 quilts, $56.04; 2 comforters. $1.50; 45 
prayer-covermgs, $15.50; 42 sun-bonnets, $20.20; birthday offerings, 
$7.90; donations, $18.97; 1 sale dinner, $32.86; carried over, $63 45- total 
$216.42. Expenses for material, $8.40; Virginia Industrial School, $13^ 
District Secretary. $1; India Boarding School, $25; Armourdale church 
Kansas City, $25; linoleum, $22.50; parsonage, $25; flowers, $5.25- evan- 
gelist, $5; balance, $86.27. Officers: President, Sister Elmira Hostct- 
ler; Vice-President, Sister C. W. FHckingcr; the writer, Secretary- 
Treasurer.— Minnie Keller, Morrill, Kans., Jan. 9. 

MOUNTVILLE, PA.-We held 16 all-day meetings and 6 half-day; 
enrollment, 8. Our work consisted of making aprons, bonnets, clothes- 
pin bags, knottmg comforts and .quilting. Balance from last year, 
$171.08; receipts, $227.70; we contributed for local charity, $32.48; for 
material, $66.30; $300 toward remodeling our church; total, $398-78. 
Officers: President, Sister Mary Kauffman; Secretary, the writer; 
Treasurer, Mrs. Mary G. Bushong.— Mrs. Benj. G. Bushong, Columbia 
Pa., Jan. 7. 

NEW PARIS, IND.-We held 18 half-day and 6 all-day meetings; 
average attendance, 8. Receipts: from 11 sale lunches and 1 dinner, 
$453.57; offerings, $11.99; prayer-veils, $10.65; sewing, $8.98; sale of 
quilt, $5; total, $490.19. Expenses: for sale lunches, $158.16; merchan- 
dise, $44.68; District Secretary. $1; Forward Movement, $10; Russel 
Bollinger, $25; General Aid of Northern Indiana, $5; India share plan, 
$25; church basement, $25; lease of ground, $6.25; share in building, 
$55; oil cloth, $14.25; Mission Board for foreign mission deficit, $25; 
Greene County Industrial School. $25; total, $429.34. We sent to St! 
Joseph, Mo., 2 comforters valued at $10; box of clothing to Hastings 
Street Mission, $25; clothing to Bethany, $30. Officers: Sister Jennie 
Martin. President; Sister Arthur Shultz, Secretary- Treasurer.— Clara 
Harshman, New Paris, Ind., Jan. 10. 

NEW WINDSOR, MD.— We held 12 meetings with an .average attend- 
ance of 11. Our work consisted mainly of knotting or quilting 6 
comforts and 8 quilts, and some other sewing. We donated a quilt 
to the Armenians; 3 cqunterpanes, 2 sheets, 2 pillowcases and 6 
towels to Old Folks' Home, San Mar; 4 sheets, 8 pillowcases and 2 
bolsters to a needy family; repaired bedclothes for Blue Ridge Col- 
lege. Carried over, $34.80; receipts, $89.59j donated $86.07; paid to 
Forward Movement, $30; District Secretary, $1; balance, $1132. 
President, Mollie J. Selbyj Vice-President, Minnie Klnscy; Secre- 
tary-Treasurer, the writer.— Annie R. Stoner, New Windsor, Md., 
Jan. 7. 

NORTH LIBERTY, IND.— We held 6 all-day and 4 half-day meet- 
ings with an average attendance of 10. We held 4 pastry sales, 
$69.37; served lunch at 6 sales, $112.78; dues- and offerings, $13.99; 
for work done and garments sold, $20.48; total, $216.62. Paid out 
for material, $11.45; District dues, $1; Greene County Industrial 
School, $12; remodeling of churchhouse and carpet, $210; free lunch 
on dedication day, $11.40; we gave 6 surgeon's gowns for hospital 
in Africa; a comfort to a minister's wife;' provisions to Hastings 
Stieet Mission for Christmas for poor; total paid out, $244.85; 
carried over, $121.08; balance, $92.85. Officers: President, Jennie 
Beiler; Vice-President, Lodetna Houser; Secretary-Treasurer, the 
writer.— Anna Peterson, North Liberty, Ind., Jan. 11. 

OAK GROVE, VA.-We held 16 half-day and 5 all-day meetings; 
average attendance, 11; total visitors, 10. We made prayer-cover- 
ings, comforts, aprons, etc. Carried over, $31.71; free will offering, 
$32.39; birthday offerings, $6.91; Peerless goods, $3.50; prayer-cover- 
ings, $17.04; sale dinner, $70.58; special offering, $24.14; laundry tablets, 
$14.35; Larkin goods, $23.91; extracts, $22.83; goods sold, $27.24; 



bake 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



63 



donation. $5; total, J279.60. We paid $20 to Russian Relief; $25 to 
India share plan; §34 to Greene County School; $45 for charity; 
$15 to world-wide missions; $10 to Board of Religious Education, 
'nil Dist. of ^ a "* ^ ' or lowers; $4 to mission worner at Little 
River; $5 to Orphans' Home, Timberviile, Va.; total, $153. Expendi- 
tures.' $80.94; balance, $35.66. We gave to Queen Miller Memorial 
School, Staunton. Va., vegetables, fruit and clothing valued at $25- 
Orricers: President, Sister Lucy Sheets; Vice-President, Sister Mary 
Hulvey; Treasurer, Sister Mary Wine; Secretary, the writer.— Anna 
Wine, Mt. Sidney, Va., Jan. 3. 

held 12 busi 



PENN RUN, PA.- 



quilts, 



knotted 10 comforts and sold 



ess meetings. We quilted 7 
ions. We paid $5 to Greene 
Building Fund; $1 to District 
$34.10. Officers: Mrs. 



County School; $5 to the Home «.,» 

Secretary; $41.75 for church repair: 

I M. Fyock, President; Mrs. H. A. Holsopplc, Vice-President; 

li D Simpson, Secretary-Treasurer.— Sue Widdowson, Pcnn Run, Pa., 

Jan. '7. 

PINE CREEK, ILL,— We held 17 all-day meetings; average at- 
tendance, 12. Our work consisted of making 26 aprons, 14 sun hats, 
SO prayer- coverings, 4 comfort tops, knotting two comforts and quilt- 
ing three nuilts, etc. One day's work was donated to a needy 
family Two sales held amounted to $48.37; dinner served at the 
Farmers' Institute, $35.35; dues, $17.30; extracts sold, $34.75; 2 com- 
forts were sent to Hastings Street Mission; 3 cushion and chair- 
back covers and $5 to Old Folks' Home, Mt. Morris; gifts. $3.50; 
J10 to Bethany Bible School; $20 to Greene County School; $32.50 to 
home church treasury; $6.78 for decorating parsonage; $1 to District 
Secretary; total receipts, $183.39; expenditures, $146.04; balance, $37.93. 
Officers: President, Sister EInora Everley; Vice-President, Sister 
Clara Stauffer; Secretary-Treasurer, the writer.— Mrs. Pearl Hocfle, 
I'olo, Dl- Jan. 5. 

PLEASANT VIEW, OHIO.— We held U meetings; average attend- 
ance^ 8; membership, 32. Our work consisted of making garments 
and comforters; we served one sale dinner. We gave $62 to the 
Greene County School; $50 for an India native worker; collections, 
S4f.lS; donations, $2.27. Officers: President, Sister Elsie Miller; Vice- 
President, Sister Willa Landes; Secretary-Treasurer, the writer.— 
Emma Cool, Beaverdam, Ohio, Jan. 5. 

"PXEASANT VIEW, MD.— Members enrolled, 13; we held 11 half-day 
and 2 all-day meetings; average attendance, 6. Our work consisted 
jf making quilts, comforters, prayer-coverings and other garments. 
Receipts, $159.44; we gave to Industrial School, Va., $65; to An- 
nual Conference offering, $50; to Japanese sufferers, $10; to Old 
Folks' Home, $10; to Sister Mary Martin, $5; for material, flowers, 
etc.. $13.65; balance, $5.79. We sent clothing to the Near East Re- 
lief valued at $20; and to Virginia, value, $20. Officers: President, 
Sister Ruth Ausherman; Superintendent, Sister Macie Guyton; 
Treasurer, Sister Elsie Lewis; Secretary, the writer.— Mary G. Bowlus, 
Bu rkitt sville, Md., Jan. 7. 

POLO, ILL.— We met every week with an average attendance of 
.Lout 12. Our work consisted largely of quilting and making com- 
I'orters, dresses and aprons, besides sewing for the needy. We held 
three provision sales. Receipts, $251.36; money and clothing donated, 
J54.W); $35 to school in Virginia; $100 in church treasury for District 
Mission fund; balance, $22.60. Officers: Mrs. Alice Stull, President; 
Mrs. Wm. Lampin, Vice-President; Mrs. C. C. Price, Secretary -Treas- 
urer; Mrs. Lizzie Gilbert, Superintendent.— Mrs. Chis. W. Slifer, Polo, 
111., Jan. 7. 

READING, PA;— Officers: President, Lizzie George; Vice-President, 
Olivia Moyer; Secretary, Annie Richardson; Treasurer, Alma Meade. 
Meetings held, 29; average attendance, 6; articles made, 73 aprons, 
65 sunbonnets, 8 dust caps, 12 clothespin bags, pieced 8 quilts, 
•luiited 16, made 9 comforters. Carried over, $35.49; dues, $15.50; 
donations, $36; articles sold, $133.20; interest, $1.05; total, $221.24. 
1'aid out for material, $76.70; donated to church, $25; to wife of 
evangelist, $14; total, $115.70; balance, $105.51.— Annie Richardson, 
Sliillington, Pa., Jan. 3. 

SELMA, VA.— Enrollment, 22; attendance, 4 to 6. Our work con- 
sisted of tacking comforts, making prayer-coverings and garments. 
We held 12 half-day meetings. Receipts: dues, $25.67; free will 
■-, Ik-rings, $49.20; work, $112.92; birthday offerings, $42.09; magazines, 
310. We made 215 visits to the sick. We gave to the Greene County 
School, $50; $25 for general missions. Officers: President, Sister J. 
S. Zigler; 'Vice-President, Sister J. K. Hill; Treasurer, Sister A. C. 
Turner; Superintendent, Sister F. M. Lawson; Secretary, the writer.— 
Mrs. Olivia Warlitner, Selma, Va., Jan. 9. 

SOMERSET, PA.— We held 43 meetings; average attendance, 9; 
enrollment, 26. Our work consisted of piecing quilts, quilting, mak- 
ing aprons, bonnets, rugs, selling vanilla. We held several bake 
sales and gave one banquet. Receipts, $632.55; paid out, $629.01. 
Officers: President, Mrs. D. F. Walker; Vice-Presidents, Mrs. Milton 
Meyers and Mrs. E. D. Walker; Secretary, the writer; Treasurer, 
Mrs. J. H. Fike.— Mrs. J. H. Mowry, Somerset, Pa., Jan. 8. 

SUMMIT, VA.— Wc held 12 meetings; we have 24 members; average 
.attendance, 10. Wc sent 5 joy boxes to shut-ins. Received in free- 
will offerings. $20.75; birthday offerings, ' $8.89; absent fees, $4.25; 
prayer-coverings, $16.30; extracts, $16.60; rugs, $9.50; laundry tablets, 
55-50; post cards, mottoes, calendars, garments, etc., $46.13; Easter 
uffering, $11.40; white sale, $39.25; carried over, $64.61; total, $246.18. 
Expenditures, for Forward Movement, $52; -India Share Plan, $25; 
" Messenger " in eight homes, $8; material, $7; extracts, $12.96; Bridge- 
water College for ministers, $10; washing tablets, $9.50; Orphans' 
Home, $10; mission worker at Little River, $9; mottoes, $8.60; for 
needy, $S; W. B. Stover's book, $4; flowers, $2; miscellaneous, $35.64; 
total, $198.90; balance, $47.48. Officers: President, Lottie Cline; Vice- 
President, Laura Craun; Secretary-Treasurer, Mattie Wise.— Christina 
E. Huffer, Mt. Crawford, "Va., Jan. 8. 

UNION BRIDGE, MD.— We held 13 meetings with an average at- 
tendance of 10; membership, 20. Our work consisted of quilting 
and making prayer-coverings and clothing. We gave $20 to Greene 
County School; $5 to Italian Mission; $5 to Bethany Hospital; $5.40 
lor new song books for church; clothing to a poor family. Ex- 
penditures, $79.18; receipts, $95.40; balance, $16.22. Officers: Sister 
Edna Wolfe, President; Sisfer Mary Bowman, Vice-President; Sister 
E. V. Crumpacker, Secretary-Treasurer.— Edna A. Wolfe, Union 
bridge, Md., Jan. 10. 

UNION CITY, IND. (City).— We held 87 meetings; visitors, 25; 
average attendance, 5. We quilted 7 quilts, made 3 comforters, 
pieced quilt blocks; donated clothing to poor; held 2 markets and 
a bazaar. Receipts, $178.10; balance and receipts, $341.15; expenses, 
5167.32; balance, $173.83. Officers: President, Sister Elizabeth 
took; Vice-President, Sister Addic Nctzley; Secretary -Treasurer, the 
writer.— Amanda Noffsinger, Union City, Ind,, Jan. 7. 

UNIONTOWN, PA.-Wc held 43 meetings; average attendance, 6. 
We quilted 24 quilts, receiving $125.62; donations, $18.55. We made 
and sold 123 prayer-coverings, 20 bath towels, 55 aprons, 30 pair 
pillow cases; 50 bottles extract, 25 dust caps, 60 sun-bonnets, 150 
calendars, 120 paper flowers, etc. Receipts, $475. We gave $25 to 
'oreign missions; $167 to home missions; to Near East Relief, $17; 
West Virginia mission church, $10; Africa work, $15; Bethany 
Hospital, $10; Annual Meeting offering, $20; parsonage fund, $65; 
IJjstnct building fund, $5; General Mission Board, $5; on hand, $47. 
Ulhcers: Sister Amanda Johnson, President; Sister Anna Barnthouse, 
Vice-President; Sister Bertha Whitacre, Secretary; Sister Elizabeth 
l nomas, Treasurcr.-Orpha Collier, Uniontown, Pa., Jan. 10. 

WASHINGTON, KANS. -Enrollment, 33; meetings held, 23; aver- 
age attendance, 12. Our work consisted of piecing quilts, quilting, 
tying comforts, selling extract and doing plain sewing. We also 
served lunch at sales and had a food sale. Carried over, $42.98; 
receipts, $110.53. We bought an organ and song books lor our 
church; gave $33.75 to* church treasurer; $13 to District Secretary, 
«»tal expenditures, $93.96; balance, $59.55. Officers: Mrs. Mae Gauby, 
president; Mrs. Alice Bell, Vice-President; Mrs. Minnie Bell, Secre- 
tary. Treasurer.— Hazel Kling, Washington, Kans., Jan. 7. 

WEST ALEXANDRIA, OHIO (Toms Run).-We held 26 meetings, 
• au-uay; average attendance, 6. Our work consisted of making 
lu'lts and clothing for the needy. Collections, $33.06. We gave $25 
toward our new church; donated a ton of coal to a needy family; $S 



to a sister; helped with Vacation Bible School expenses; total, $89.13. 
Officers: Liretta Brower. President; Mary Erbaugh, Vice-President; 
the writer, Secretary-Treasurer.— Irene Erbaugh, West Alexandria. 
Ohio, Jan. 7. 

- WEST GOSHEN, IND.-We held 40 all-day meetings; enrollment, 
30; average attendance, 13. Collections. $36.49. Visits made to the 
sick and shut-ins, 512. We made 148 prayer-coverings and a number 
of sun-bonnets; quilted 27 quilts and knotted 12 comforters. Wc 
donated clothing, cash, eatables, etc., to home and foreign mission 
work and to local charity, $208.88. Wc gave to Greene County School. 
$40; to Bethany Hospital, $25; to Mexican School, $25; to Orphanage. 
Mexico, Ind.. $6; to Africa medical mission in sheets, towels, etc., 
$8. Profit from serving two sale dinners, $75, was given to the 
West Goshen Building fund. We also sold extract and washing powder. 
Value of material on hand, $168; total receipts, $402.67; expenditures. 
$402.45; amount in treasury, $192.98. Officers: President. Nannie 
Priser; Vice-President, Catherine Baker; Superintendent, Lovina Big- 
ler; Secretary-Treasurer, the writer.— Dora Scrogum, Goshen, Ind., 

WEST MANCHESTER, IND.-We held 13 regular and 2 social 
meetings; average attendance, 16. Our work consisted of quilting, 
comfort and garment making. Shipments of clothing and eatables 
were made to Chicago, Delphi and Old Folks and Orphans' Home at 
Mexico. Through our efforts we now have a suitable work room for 
the Aid and a splendid place for social gatherings. Receipts: regular 
offerings, $20.17; work and garments, $7; enrollment, $11.50; extracts, 
$12.54; donations and public offerings, $44.25; rainy day bags, $22,83; 
incidentals, $10.17; ice cream social, $26.33; sale dinner, $106.98; market, 
$67.18; total, $328.95. Disbursements: repair work, $125.11; sale dinners, 
$37.22; ice cream social. $17.15; District Secretary, $6; material, $34.11; 
flowers, $4.05; express, etc., $12.28; extracts, $18; Hastings Street Mis- 
sion, $17.20; elder's wife, $10; total, $281.42; balance. $187.97. Officers: 
President, Sister I. B. Book; Vice-President, Orpha Bridge; Superin- 
tendent, Minnie Brookins; Secretary -Treasurer, the writer.— Edith 
Miller, North Manchester, Ind., Jan. 7. 

WEST NIMISHILLEN, OHIO.-Wc held 24 all-day meetings with an 
average attendance of 11. We quilted 16 quilts, knotted 5 comforts and 
made 27 sun-bonnets. Receipts from sale of bedding and other articles, 
$67.05; total receipts. $164.22. Wc donated 2 comforts and furnishings 
for a bed for needy family; gave $34.10 to Virginia school; $1 to District 
Secretary; $5.75 for flowers; $74.95 for supplies; balance, $117.15. Of- 
ficers: President, Lottie Holt; Assistant, Annie Iloll; Superintendent, 
Clara Young; Secretary-Treasurer, the writer. — Ce villa Myers, North 
Canton, Ohio. Jan, 7. 



MATRIMONIAL 



Please note that the fifty cents required for the publication of a 
marriage notice may be applied to a three months "Gospel Mes- 
senger ' subscription for the newly-married couple. Request should 
be made when the notice is sent, and full address given. 



Gardner-Bowers. — In the home of John Jacobs, Mount Morris, 
111., Dec. 27, 1923. Brother John Gardner, of Mount Morris, and 
Sister Mildred Bowers, of Lanark, 111.— Wilbur B. Stover, Mt. Morris, 
111. 

Gorden-Stites.— By the undersigned, Dec. 25, 1923, at the home 
of the bride's parents, Brother and Sister Newton F. Stites, Bro. 
Thurl D. Gorden and Sister Grace Stites.— Wm. L. Gorden, Michigan 
City, Ind. 

McKinzie-Losfabaugh.— At the home of Rev. Gray, Welch, Okla., 
Dec. 30, 1923, Brother Jesse McKinzie and Sister Zada Loahbaugh, 
both of Hollow.— Orpha Loshbaugh. Hollow, Okla. 

Strayer-Gohn.— By the undersigned, at the Scalp Level parsonage, 
Dec. 15, 1923, Mr. Orval Strayer, of Johnstown, and Miss Alvcrta 
Gohn, of Windber.— L. S. Knepper. Windber, Pa. 



FALLEN ASLEEP 



Beck, Sister Fanny Gruber, born in Lancaster, Pa., March 9, 
. 1870, died Dec. 27, 1923. She came with her parents to Illinois 
in 1881. She married Samuel Beck Aug. 24, 1397. There were two 
children. Early in life she united with the Church of the Brethren 
and was a faithful Christian. She was an invalid for years due 
to paralysis. She leaves her daughter, four brothers and three 
sisters. Services in the Astoria church by Bro. A. L. Sellers. In- 
terment in South Fulton cemetery.— Hettie L. Cibble, Astoria, III. 

Bollinger, Bro. Abraham H., born in Lancaster County, Pa., died 
at the home of his son-in-law, Monroe F. Longeneckcr, at Denver, 
in the bounds of the Springville church, Dec. 20, 1923, aged 88 years, 
9 months and 26 days. He was baptized Nov. 16, 1923. His wife 
died ten years ago. He is survived by two daughters, three grand- 
children and two sisters. Services at Middle Creek church by 
Eld. I. W. Taylor and Bro. Isaac Wenger. Interment in the ad- 
joining cemetery. — Aaron R. Gibbel, Ephrata, Pa. 

Bowers, Sister Emma C, born at Carroll ton, Ohio, died at Massillon 
State Hospital, Dec. 6, 1923, aged S3 years. Death was due to a 
nervous breakdown from which she suffered nearly two years. She 
united with the Church of the Brethren about thirty years ago. 
She is survived by her husband, Clement Bowers, and one son. 
Services and interment at Liberty, near Minerva, Ohio.— D. F. Stuckcy, 
Paris, Ohio. 

Cripe, Bro. Aaron, son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Cripe, born in 
Elkhart County. Ind., died Dec. 6, 1923, aged 64 years, 9 months 
and 5 days. Aug. 21, 1884, he married Amanda Ulcry. There were 
two daughters who survive with his wife, four grandchildren, two 
brothers and three sisters. Bro. Cripe united with the Church of 
the Brethren about thirty-five years ago and has lived a faithful 
Christian life. Services at the West Goshen church by Bro. Frank 
Kreider and Bro. Melvin Stutsman. Interment in West Goshen 
cemetery.— Ethel Hoover, West Goshen, Ind. 

Culler, Rebecca, oldest child of John and Catherine Mcloy, born 
near Syracuse, Ind., July 10, 1855. When she was eighteen she 
united with the Church of the Brethren in which faith she served 
her Master to the end of life. Oct. 18, 1877, she married Jacob O. 
Culler. For nearly thirty years of their married life they lived 
on a farm near New Paris, in the bounds of the Maple Grove 
church, formerly a part of the old Union Center church, where they 
were elected to the deacon's office thirty years tgo. In her more 
active years she spent much time caring for the sick in the neigh- 
borhood. She ministered untiringly to rich and poor alike. The 
work of the Aid Society was her keen delight. She and her hus- 
band were never forgetful to entertain strangers. Scores of poor, 
friendless ones shared their hospitality. Their humble home was 
always open to friends, and with a special joy they welcomed those 
of the same household of faith. Her husband died two years ago. 
Dec. 4, 1923, she suffered a stroke of apoplexy and passed away within 
twelve hours. She leaves a brother and sister, four daughters and 
an adopted daughter. Services by Bro. M. D. Stutsman, at the 
West Goshen church.— Nettie C. Weybright, Syracuse, Ind. 

Deardorff. Bro. John A., died at his home in Adams County, Pa., 
near Heidlersburg, in the bounds of the Marsh Creek congregation, 
Dec. 19, 1923, aged 73 years, 11 months and 3 days. He leaves a 
wife and three sons. Services in the Mummert meetinghouse near 
East Berlin by Elders C. L. Baker and B. F. Lightncr. Burial in 
adjoining cemetery.— Mrs. Walter A. Keeney, East Berlin, Pa. 

Deardorff, Sister Margarctta, died at the home of her son, Calvin 
Deardorff. near Mulberry, Pa., Dec. 17. 1923, of apoplexy, aged 90 
years and 3 months. She was a faithful member of the Upper Cone- 
wago congregation of the Church of the Brethren for many years. 



Her husband died twenty-six years ago. She leaves eight children, 
forty-four grandchildren and ninety great-grandchildren, She was an 
invalid for a number of years not being able to Jeave her bed, but 
bore it all without a murmur. Services at the Mummert meet- 
ing house by Elders C. L. Baker and Oliver Cook, assisted by 
Bro. Roy Cook. Burial in the adjoining cemetery.— Mrs. Walter A. 
Kccncy, East Berlin, Pa. 

Getit, Mary Ann Beitlcr, daughter of Samuel and Betsie Beitler. 
died Nov. 25. 1923, aged 76 years, 10 months and 26 days. She 
was married to Emmanuel Geist, of Lancaster, Pa., Oct. 1, 1867. 
She became a member of the Church of the Brethren in 1879, and was 
faithful until death. Services by the writer.— J. W. Fidler, Brook- 
ville. Ohio. 

Gingrich, Sister Leah, died at Hershey, Pa., Dec. 28. 1923, from the 
effect of a paralytic stroke, aged 86 years, 6 months and 8 daye. 
Sister Gingrich was never married. She united with the church 
July 17, 1921. She was one of a family of nine children, only one 
brother being left. Funeral services at Spring Creek church by 
Elders John C. Zug and John H. Witmcr. Interment in ceme- 
tery adjoining.— Mary Bashore, Hershey, Pa. 

Grove, Eld. Jos., died at his home in West Covington, Dec. 21, 
1923, aged 87 years. 2 months and 14 days. He was horn near 
Harrisburg, Pa. He was twice married, first to Catharine Rcnch 
in 1858. She died in the same year. His second wife was Mary 
Shoe who died in 1914. There were four sons and four daughters, two 
of whom preceded him. Bro. Grove united with the church in 
August, 18S8, and in 1869 was elected to the office of deacon in 
the Covington church. In 1874 he was elected to the ministry in 
the Pitsburg congregation. In 1885 he was ordained to the full 
ministry and to the eldership in 1895. He lost his eyesight some 
years ago and was not able to attend church but his faith became 
stronger. Service by D. M. Garver in the Church of the Brethren at 
Covington. Interment in Hiland eeriietery.— Mrs, Quindora Grubb, 
Covington, Ohio. 

Kitchen, James Z., was born June 12, 1846. died Dec. 12, 1923, aged 
77 years and 6 months. He had been a resident of Clearfield, Pa., 
for many years. He is survived by his wife, eight children, thirty- 
five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He called for the 
anointing service several weeks before his death. Services in the 
Chess Creek church by the writer, assisted by Rev. Dunkelherger 
of the United Brethren church. Burial in the church cemetery.— 
Gmnt Weaver, Huntingdon, 1'a. 

Uchty, Sister Ida (Bauermaster). born -Oct. 25, 1863, in Somerset 
Comity, Pa., died at her home in Carlcton, Ncbr., Dec. 24, 1923. She 
married Ross Lichty Sept. 20, 1885, She leaves her husband, four 
sons, one daughter, eight grandchildren, one brother and one sister. 
During the six years that she was confined to her home she always 
welcomed her friends and was eager to know all the church news. 
She hecame a member of the Church of the Brethren when a girl 
and remained faithful. Services at the Bethel church by Bro. A. 
D. Sollenlierger, assisted by Rev. Kemper and Rev. Alhcrtson.— Mrs. 
A. 1). Fbry, Carlcton, Nebr. 

Miller, Eliza Ann, nee Sawyer, wife of Bro. Jerome Miller, died 
at her home at Ephrata, Dec. 28, 1923, aged 71 years, 5 months and 
3 days. Death was due to dropsy with which she had been a suf- 
ferer for several months. She united with the Church of the 
Brethren forty-five years ago. She served as deaconess for twenty 
years, and also taught a class in Sunday-school for a number of 
years. She is survived by her husband, six daughters, three sons, two 
brothers, three sisters, u number of grandchildren and great-grand- 
children. Two children preceded her. Services at the Ephrata church 
by Eld. David Kilhcfner. Interment in Bowman's cemetery.— Gertrude 
A. Shirk, Ephrata, Pa. 

Rudy, Sister Mary Ann. died Nov. 18, 1923, aged 76 years, 2 
months and 14 days. She was one of a family of six and all 
except one preceded her. She married Wm. Rudy with whom she 
shared life's joys and sorrows for forty-five years. There were five 
children all of whom arc living— four daughters and one son. She 
united with the church forty-five years ago and her seat was 
seldom .vacant. On Monday morning she was found unconscious 
and passed away in a few hours. Services by Bro. McKce. Burial 
in Covington cemetery,— Mrs. Quindora Grubb, Covington, Ohio. 

Shank, Catherine, nee Grose, born April 28, 1849, in Wayne County, 
Ohio, died Dec. 30, 1923. She was staying at the home of her 
daughter, Mrs. John Keeling, In Kansas City, Mo. Her sickness 
was of short duration, less than twenty-four hours. Dec. 23, 1869, she 
married Daniel Shank. There were three sons and two daughters 
who survive with thirty-two grandchildren and three great-grand- 
children She united with the Church of the Brethren in 1877, and 
lived faithful to her vows. Services at the Carthage church by 
Noah Oren and the writer.-J. H. Morris, Carthage, Mo. 

Sivlts, Mrs. Ida Susan Brant, died at her home near Berlin, Dec. 
31 1923 aged 60 years, 8 months and 2 days. Nov. 9, 1886, she 
married' John Sivits. There were eight children, four ol whom 
preceded her. She was a very faithful member of the Brothers 
Valley congregation and her influence will have a lasting effect 
upon all with whom she associated. She is survived by her hus- 
band three daughters, one son, twelve grandchildren and two brothers. 
Services in the Pike church by the writer. Interment in the Pike 
cemetery.— L. S. Knepper, Windber. Pa. 

Ulrich Cora Eveline, wiic of Bro. Clark Ulrich, of Fredonia, died 
Dec. 31, 1923, aged 49 years, 3 months and 11 days. She died at 
the Chanute Hospital where she had undergone an operation. Be- 
sides her husband she leaves one daughter, one son, father, mother 
and several brothers and sisters. Services by C. O. Wilson of 
the Christian Church. Burial in the Fredonia cemetery.— Mrs. Flaura 
Kccd, Fredonia, Kans. 



The Church of the Brethren 

Formerly Called Dunk«ra 

I This body of Christians originated early in the eighteenth cen- 
tury, the church being a natural outgrowth of the Pietistic move- 
ment following the Reformation. 

2. Firmly accepts and teaches the fundamental evangelical doc- 
trines of the inspiration of the Bible, the personality oi the Holy 
Soirit the virgin birth, the deity of Christ, the im-pardonmg value 
of his' atonement his resurrection from the tomb, ascension and per- 
sonal and Visible return, and resurrection, both of the just and 
unjust (John 5: 28, 29; 1 Thess. 4: 13-18) 

3 Observes the following New Testament rites: Baptism of peni- 
tent believers by trine immersion for the remission of sins (Matt. 
28- 19° Acts 2: 38); feet-washing (John 13: 1-20; 1 Tim. 5: 10); love 
^ast (Luke 22: 20; John 13: 4; 1 Cor. 11: 17-34; Jude 12); communion 
(Matt. 26: 26-30); the Christian salutation (R»n. 16: 16; Acts 20: 37); 
per appearance i 



proper 
healin 



.../ship (1 Cor. 11: 2-16); the" anointing for 
. .„ the name of the Lord (James 5: 13-18; Mark 6: 13); laying 
on of hands (Acts 8: 17; 19: 6; 1 Tim 4: 14). These rites are rep- 
resentative of spiritual facts which obtain u i the lives of true be- 
lievers and as such are essential factors in the development of the 
Christian life. 

4 Emphasizes daily devotion for the individual and family wor- 
ship for the borne {Eph. 6: 18-20; Philpp. 4: 8, 9); stewardship of 
time, talents and money (Matt. 25: 14-30); taking care of the father- 
less.' widows, poor, sick and aged (Acts 6: 1-7). 

5 ODDOses on Scriptural grounds: War and the taking of human 
lite (Matt. 5: 21-26, 43, 44; Rom. 12: 19-21; Is*. 5J: 7-12); violence in 
personal and induatria: controversy (Matt. 7: 12; Rom. 13: B-10); in- 
temperance in all things (Titus 2: 2;, GaL 5: 19-26; Eph. 5: 18): going 
to law especially against our Christian brethren (1 Cor. 6: 1-9); 
divorce and remarriage except for the one Scriptural reason (Matt. 
19- 9V every form of oath (Matt. S: 33-37; James 5: 12); membership 
in'secret oath-bound societies (2 Cor. 6: 14-18); games of chance and 
sinful amusement. (1 Thess. 5: 22; 1 Peter ; 2: 11; Rom. 12: 17); ex- 
travagant and immodest dress (1 Tim. 2: 8-10; 1 Peter 3: 1-6). 

6. Labors earnestly in harmony with the Great Commission, for 
the evangelization of the world, for the conversion of men to Jesus 
Christ, and for the realisation of the life of Jesus Christ in every 
believer (Matt. 28: 18-20; Mark 16: 15, 16; 2 Cor. 3: 18). 

7. Maintains the New Testament as ita only creed, in harmony 
with which the above brief doctrinal statement is made. 



64 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER— January 26, 1924 



THE GOSPEL MESSENGER 

Official Organ of the Church of the Brethren 

Published weekly by Brethren Publishing House. R. E. Arnold, Gen- 
eral Manager, 16 to 24 S. State St.. Elgin, 111., at $2.00 per annum, in 
advance. (Canada subscriptions fifty cents extra.) 

Editor 
Assistant Editor 



EDWARD FRANTZ, - - - - 

L. A. PLATE (Died Dec. 31. 1923), 



Entered at the Postoffiee at Elgin. III., as Second-class Matter. 
Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in 
section 1103. Act of October 3, 1917, authorised August 20, 1918. 

Notes From Our Correspondents 

(Continued from Page 61) 
Mt. Joy.— With Eld. M. J. Brougher presiding our council wa» 
held last evening. We chose a new board of auditors. A com- 
mittee to draft our minutes into a constitution was elected. Per- 
mission was given to begin actual work on our church improvements, 
when one-half of the money needed shall have been pledged, the 
remainder to be pledged at dedication. We are providing for our 
young people's social and soul interests by giving each Friday 
evening a program of song, speeches, etc.— Frank B. Myers, Mt. 
Pleasant, Pa., Jan. 9. 

Parker Ford.— With the Christmas season we endeavor to bring as 
much cheer and gladness to the community as possible. This has 
been done by caroling early Christmas morning and sending baskets 
to the poor, sick and shut-ins. Dec. 23 the children Rave the Christmas 
message. In the evening the choir, under the leadership of Sister 
Dixon, gave a similar message in song. New Year's Eve we had 
election of. officers (or the Sunday-school and Christian Endeavor, 
followed by a social time. Wc were much pleased to have raised our 
quota for the General Mission Board by Christmas and also to 
help the Near East Relief with, a gift ol §125. The past week two have 
been baptized and received into the church.— M. Edith Pennypacker, 
Parker Ford, Pa., Jan. 9. 

Reading.— On Jan. 7 the. Reading congregation met in council at the 
Reading meetinghouse for its regular quarterly business- meeting. 
Owing to illness, our elder in charge, Bro. L W. Taylor, was not 
present; the work being in charge of Eld. D. W. Weaver, who is a 
resident of this congregation. This congregation is looking forward 
to greater activities in litis city and vicinity for the year 1924. From 
present indications it appears that our territory will "he enlarged to 
include such outlying points as arc occupied by quite a number of 
our members. The writer has been serving the congregation at Qua- 
kertown, preaching for them for some time and will continue to do so 
at frequent intervals until March 1, 1924, when those folks will be 
served by a regular pastor, whom they have called. The church 
at Reading has just closed a very successful year, both in the 
church work as well as in the Sunday-school. Bro. Linn H. Nics has 
been elected as Sunday-school superintendent tor the year 1924.— Henry 
H. Moyer, Reading, Pa.. Jan. 10. 

Roxbury.— We feel proud of the record our church and Sun- 
day-school has made during 1923, and we are planning again for 
big things this year. In the Sunday-school we broke all former 
records in attendance, average attendance and offerings, the largest 
attendance being on Rally Day, when we had 425 present. At 
Christmas time the members of the chorus gave the pageant 
" When the Star Shone " to a crowded house, which was very 
well received. Our White Gift offering was given to the Old Folks' 
Home in our District, and -as very liberal. Jan. 1 wc had our 
council meeting. The reports of the various treasurers were ex- 
ceedingly good and all showed a fine balance for the new year. We 
are very well pleased with the amount received during the past 
year for the building fund of the new church. The reports from 
the various organizations showed they were growing. The church 
decided to send four delegates to District Meeting to be held in 
the church at Somerset, Pa. The following were elected: Bro. J. C. 
W. Beam, Brother and Sister E. M. Detwiler and the writer.— John 
P. Coleman, Johnstown, Pa., Jan. 8. 

Rummel.— Jan 1 we had a reception at the church in honor of 
our new pastor. Bro. D. P. Hoover, and family. A very interest- 
ing program was rendered. Bro. A. G. Faust gave an excellent 
address of welcome, after which wc had a social hour in order to 
become better acquainted. Jan. 3 we met in council. Officers for 
the year were elected, with Bro. D. P. Hoover, elder; Bro. Henry 
Helman, clerk; the writer, correspondent; Sister Hoover, "Messenger" 
agent. Jan. 6 Bro. He-over delivered his first sermon. In the 
evening we had installation services for Sunday-school and church 
officers. Bro. Hoover used for his text, " Study to Show Thyself 
Approved unto God." Hia message was inspiring to all.— Effie 
Statler, Windber, Pa., Jan. 7. 

Springfield church met in council at the Quakertown house Dec. 
22. Our Sunday-school officers for Quakertown were elected for 
the year with Brethren Morton Holsinger and Alfred George, super- 
intendents. The writer was elected correspondent. Bro. H. H. 
Moyer. of Reading. Pa., was chosen to preach for us this winter. 
The Quakertown Sunday-school's contribution to the Emergency 
Fund was quite liberal. Our elder and Bro. H. H. Moyer are 
giving us some inspiring and uplifting sermons, and we feel that 
our little church is being revived and built up through the ef- 
forts of these devoted and sincere brethren.— Mrs. S. S. Lint, Quaker- 
town, Pa., Jan. 7. 

Vlewmont.— Our church and Sunday-school officers have been 
elected for the year, with Bro. L. B. Harshbarger, pastor, and Bro. 
C. M. Horst, elder. He has served this church faithfully for six 
years. Our general Sunday-school superintendent is Bro. G. L. 
Peterson; " Messenger " correspondent and periodical agent, the 
writer. The offerings from our Thanksgiving service were given 
to the Emergency Fund. Our Christmas program was fine. We 
had a White Gift offering, the proceeds being given to the Chris- 
tian Home. Our pastor has been giving us a series of very in- 
structive and interesting sermons from Rom. 12, which are ap- 
preciated by many. Sister W. D. Keller, of Johnstown, conducted 
installation services for church and Sunday-school officers in an 
impressive way. Our year's work has been successful in a good 
many ways, in offerings, attendance, etc.— Wro. H. Rummel, Johns- 
town, Pa., Jan. 7. 

West Conestoga church met in council Dec, 26, with Eld. L W, 
Taylor in charge. Brethren J. W. G. Hershey and Samuel Wolf as- 
sisted in the election of a minister and a deacon. Bro. Reuben Myers 
was elected to the ministry and Bro. Samuel Fahncstock to the 
deacon's office. The Sunday-school officers for the year were also 
appointed.— J. M. Bollinger, Lititz, Pa., Jan. II. 

White Oak-— Bro. Chas. Cassel, a minister of our own congrega- 
tion, held a series of evangelistic services at the Gray hill house 
Oct. 24 to Dec. 8. The following evening Bro. Rufus Bucher, of 
Mechanic Grove, opened a series of meetings at the Manheim 
house, closing Dec. 23. Both brethren preached the Word with zeal 
and power. Their labors among us were much appreciated. Dur- 
ing Bro. Cassel's efforts thirteen were added to the Kingdom, and 
five during Bro. Bucher's meetings. Three more came afterward. 
Dec. 16 Sister Kathryn Ziegler gave an interesting talk to the 
Manheun Sunday-school. An offering of $68 was taken for foreign 
missions.— H. G. Minnich, Lititz, Pa., Jan. 7. 

Wooddale.— Our revival meetings began Dec. 16 and continued for 
three weeks, conducted by our pastor, Bro. R. T. Hull. We had very 
interesting sermons and good singing, conducted by Bro. Paul Smal- 
ley, of Greensburg. Six were baptized and one was reclaimed. An en- 
joyable love feast was held Dec. 30. Our Sunday-school is grow- 
ing in interest and attendance.— J. E. Jones, Mt. Pleasant, Pa., Jan. 16. 

TENNESSEE 

Plaa**nt View congregation met in council for the purpose of con- 
sidering rebuilding our church, which burned Dec 12. The question 



of location was discussed, there being two points considered. Some 
were in favor of moving the church to another place, and some for 
rebuilding on the present site. After taking the vote of the mem- 
bers present there were thirty in favor of building on the old site. 
A building committee was appointed and organized. As a start to 
rebuilding, $800 was subscribed.— N. T. Larimer, Jonesboro, Tenn., 
Jan. 12. 

VIRGINIA 

Grecnmount congregation met in council Nov. 10. Sunday-school 
superintendents and their helpers were appointed for 1924: Bethany, 
D. W. Wampler, superintendent; Fairview, J. D. Miller; Green- 
mount. D. R. Miller; Melrose. Virgil F. Miller; Mt. Zion, J. W. 
Myers; Pine Grove, H. E. Kline. The church decided to put 
electric lights in the Grecnmount house. The finance committee 
urged ministers and Sunday-school teachers to teach more the 
blessings of giving, and all ore urged to greater service in giving. 
Greenmount congregation met in council Dec. 29. Officers were 
elected for Christian Workers' Meeting, with D. C. Myers, president. 
Hannah C. Myers and the writer were chosen correspondents.— 
Lizzie S. Myers. Edom, Va., Jan. 7. 

Germantown church met in council Nov. 5. The church officers 
were elected for the year, with Bro. John Angle, Sunday-school super- 
intendent; Bro. Willie Barnhart, " Messenger " agent; the writer, 
church correspondent. A Temperance Committee also was appointed, 
and five directors of the Forward Movement. Wc decided that our 
ministerial work would be deferred for one year. Eld. J. B, Peters 
gave us an inspiring sermon on Thanksgiving Day- Our offering was 
$47.64, $35 for the Emergency Fund and $12.64 for the new church at 
Spray. N. C. We .also had preaching on Christmas Day by Eld. J. 

B. Peters. Our Sunday-school presented a very interesting Christmas 
program the following night. Jan. 13 Bro. Geo. B. Flora preached a 
very inspiring sermon.— Margie Naff Flora, Wcrtz, Va., Jan. ' 13. 

Roanoke City.— Our Christmas programs were varied and interest- 
ing. Dec. 23 in the morning service the Beginner and Primary De- 
partments of our Sunday-school gave a very interesting program. 
In the evening the choir, under the direction of the leader, Bro. 
A. D. Miller, rendered in a very beautiful way the cantata, " The King 
Cometh." Dec. 30 at 5:30 the Young People's Christian Union enter- 
tained the Beginner and Primary Departments with a Christmas tree. 
A very fitting program was carried out and at the conclusion each 
child was presented with a box of candies and nuts. At 7: 30 P. M. 
the Junior and Intermediate Departments of the Sunday-school, with 
the Y. P. C. U., presented a program in pictures and songs that 
was very pleasing. The different classes brought their White Gifts, 
making it possible For several nice baskets of provisions to be sent 
to poor homes in the city.— Lelia Maude Cundiff, Roanoke, Va., Jan. 11. 

Trevilian.— We had a very interesting Christmas program at our 
church Dec. 25. An offering of $51.30 was taken for the Emergency 
Fund. Dec. 29 we met in council eo plan for bigger and better things 
for the coming year. Eld. C. G. Petry was chosen elder; and Breth- 
ren Wilmer Petry and Frank Glick, Sunday-school superintendents. — 

C. M. Shumake, Trevilian, Va., Jan. 13. 

WASHINGTON 
Forest Center church met in council Dec. 26 with our elder pre- 
siding. The officers were elected for the coming year for church 
and Sunday-school, with Bro. W. H. Tigner, elder; E. R. Tigner, 
superintendent. Our attendance has been small of late on account of 
bad weather and the distance that some have to come. — Nora A 
Willey. Valley, Wash., Jan. 6. 

Mt. Hope church has just closed a very interesting year— perhaps 
the best since our organization. Our average attendance was 
around sixty-five. We are a country church located up in the 
mountains and considering the location, our attendance and in- 
terest have been good. We have observed all special days and 
assisted iu Thanksgiving and Christmas services at Chewclah. 
We have formed a church federation, having a committee selected 
from each of the five churches. The purpose is to have union 
n special days. While we are one of the five churches 
in this work, yet we hold our own special meetings 



but at different hours from the meetings in town. A cantata was 
given by our singers Dec. 23. We have not held a series of 
meetings for some time. Last year the minister we had engaged 
could not come, and this winter Bro. Woods was killed ten days 
before he was to be with us in a scries of meetings. Bro. 
Streetor has been our only minister for several years past. He 
is to go to Olympia to hold meetings beginning Jan. 6. During 
his absence our Sunday-school superintendent will arrange for 
services. Sister Dantclson is our superintendent and has given 
splendid service during the past year; she was chosen for the 
coming year without a dissenting vote— Alice M. Streeter, Chewelah 
Wash., Jan. 5. 

Sunny side.— Wc enjoyed a very interesting Christmas program at 
our church Dec. 23, which included a pageant, " The Birth of 
Christ." Dec. 16 Bro. C. I. Myers and wife were installed into 
the office of deacon. Special services were held Dec. 30. Bro. B. J. 
Fikc, of Outlook, delivered a splendid sermon at the close of which 
a number of our young Sunday-school scholars went forward. 
In the aftcnoon baptismal services were held, eight being baptized 
by Bro. Wagoner.— Mrs. Tracy Phelps, Sunnyside, Wash., Jan. 5. 

Tacoma church met in council Dec. 23. Two were received by let- 
ter. Church officers for 1924 were elected: Bro. E. S. Gregory, elder; 
Sister Nora Musser, church clerk; Sister Sylvia Ruff, correspondent 
and "Messenger" agent; Sunday-school superintendent, Bro, Harry 
Lamnicdcc. Those who are wanting a change of location should write 
us for information. We appreciate very much the presence and as- 
sistance of Bro. W. H. Grccnawalt and wife.— Nora Musser, Tacoma 
Wash.. Jan. 12. 

Wcnatchee Valley church (city congregation) met in council Jan. 2, 
with Eld. W. A. Dcardorff presiding. Due to the fact that our con- 
gregation is merging with the East Wenatchee, not many officers'were 
elected. Brethren Ira J. Lapp and E. R. Eikcnberry. of East Wenat- 
chee, were with us. At this time Brethren Frank Baldwin, Noble 
Deardorfif and Avery Dunning were called into the ministry. Since 
our last correspondence we sent at one time, $100 to the General 
Mission Board and at another time $76.54. In July our Christian 
Workers' Society sent $S0 to Martha Schick, in China, and $75 at 
the close of the year. Two other special offerings were made in the 
past six months. Our Sunday-school rendered a Christmas program, 
the offering at that time going toward the building fund. Sunday 
evening, Jan. 6, our Clean Life Army boys gave a good program, 
after which Bro. Lapp gave us a most interesting address. — Mrs. C. 
R. Weimer, Wenatchee, Wash., Jan. 9. 

Wcnatchee Valley Missionary Society held its annual meeting on 
New Year's Day. E. S. Kale was elected trustee. Since this was 
the tenth annual meeting of the society, we found over half of the 
pledges had expired; some have renewed their pledges. An effort 
will be made to secure pledges sufficient to continue the support of 
our representative on the field, Sister Ada Dunning. This society 
was formed ten years ago, when Sister Dunning, at the age of seventeen 
years, was sent to Manchester College, to begin her preparation for 
the foreign field. She proved to be faithful in her efforts and is now 
in China. We received a very interesting letter from her and we 
rejoice to know that she is taking up the work so well— E. R. Eiken 
berry, Wenatchee, Wash., Jan. 14. 

Yakima church met in regular members' meeting Jan. 2. At the 
meeting of Dec. 5 we elected church and Sunday-school officers: Bro. 
Enoch Faw, elder; Bro. Robert Faw, Sunday-school superintendent; . 
Bro. A. E. Cable, clerk; Dortha Gans, "Messenger" agent; the writer, 
correspondent. Dec. 23 our Sunday-school gave a Christmas program. 
" which was enjoyed by a large audience. We have had a mild fall 
without snow; but Dec. 24 we had a heavy snowfall and Christma; 
morning we were greeted with snow-laden trees and sunshine, whkn 
added much to the Christmas spirit.— Mrs. Myrtle R. Cable, Yakima 
Wash., Jan. 9. 

WEST VIRGINIA 

Fayette ville.— A few of the brethren met at Chestnut Grove church 
Jan. 6 and organized a Sunday-school by electing Geo. Coleman, super- 
intendent and the writer, assistant— J. H. Wells, Fayetteville, W. Va., 
Jan. 11. 



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The Gospel Messenger 



" Thia Gospel of the Kingdom shall be preached 
in the whole world."— Matt. 24: 14. 



"THY KINGDOM COME "— mm..6= io : uke ii:2 



Vol. 73 



Elgin, 111., February 2, 1924 



No. 5 



In This Number 



Editorial- 
Pressing Toward the Goal {J. E. M.), S 

The Better Brand, 6! 

When " Sacred " Swallows " Secular," 6-' 

Say "And" Not "But," & 

Among the Churches, "?'■ 

Around the World (J- E. M.) ?• 

The Quiet Hour (J. H. H.), 7- 

Our Forward Movement— 

* A Call to Prayer, 6! 

We Dare Not Slacken, G 

General Forum- 
He Is Able (Poem). By Mary Stoner Wine, S 

The World's Thought of God.— Chapter 1. By Galen B. Royer, ..6 

The Going of Lewis A. Plate. By J. H. Moore 6 

A "Jolt." By A. D. Hclser, 6 

Regeneration. W. R. Hornbaker 6 

The Federal Council of the Churches of Christ in America. 

By J. C. Shull 6 

Uses of Adversity. By Wealthy A. Burkhokler 6 

Be Separate From the World. By Anna E. Landcs 6; 

Bro. L. A. Plate. By Grant Mahan, .6' 

The Revised Hymnal. By Jno. S. Flory 7 

The Pastor's Study- 
Simple Studies on the Teaching of Prayer by Jesus. By Wm. 

Kinsey, 7 

A Filing System. By Ezra Flory » 7 

Has Christianity Been Tried? By C. H. Shamberger, 7 



j me and Family— 
When We Deserve It <P< 
Talents. By 
Four Answers 



). By Bert Leston Taylor, .. 
Mohler Trimmer , 



EDITORIAL,.. 



Pressing Toward the Goal 

Pauj., having fixed his eyes upon the goal and hav- 
ing said good-by to much of the past, says, " I press 
toward the mark. " He was not standing still. He 
was not satisfied with present attainments. For him 
merely to hold his own was not sufficient. He was 
in a race. A race means action, quick, continuous, 
persistent, determined. A race means a contest. A 
race means exerting oneself to the limit. Paul was 
not a sport but may be called a sportsman. He knew 
the great games of the great nations of his day. But 
best of all he knew the great game of life and how 
to play it. And he played it well. 

Paul was in the race of life to win. He knew the 
rules of the game and he played square. He made 
the start when on the Damascus road he was struck 
to the ground and arose ready to surrender to Jesus 
of Nazareth. From that time on the race was a strug- 
gle and he was frequently opposed. They arrested 
and imprisoned him but he went right on. They lashed 
his back with many stripes but he held to his course. 
Though shipwrecked the waters had no terrors for 
him. He was mistrusted by the best of his brethren 
but he proved his sincerity. He was stoned and 
dragged out for dead but he continued in his life pur- 
pose. He was betrayed by false brethren, the " most 
unkindest cut of all, " but he knew they were in the 
minority and he did not turn back. Paul was not a 
quitter and he wanted his Philippian brethren to know 
it. He was still carrying on when in prison and he 
desired to encourage them so that they too would carry 
on. 

What was this picture of the goal which Paul had 
in mind? At the end of the race was the prize, the 
crown for the victor. At the goal were the judges 
who rendered the decision and the victor was per- 
mitted to walk away with a crown, only a crown of 
leaves, but it was coveted as much as if it were worth 
a million dollars. The value of the prize is not its 
intrinsic worth but what it stands for in the eyes of 
the spectators. In their contests the youth who came 
from the race with a crown of leaves upon his brow 
was the idol and envy of all. 

Paul was not striving for a crown of leaves, how- 
ever valuable such a prize was. He was after a 
greater prize. His was a race for a prize which was 
the "upward" call of God in Christ Jesus. The up- 



ward call of God had revealed Jesus to Paul. " High 
calling " is better translated " upward calling. " And 
what is this upward call? It is the pull to the better, 
the higher, the spiritual values of life. There is with- 
in each of us the pull toward the better things and the 
pull towards the lower things of life. God pulls up; 
the devil pulls down. Men are subject to both pulls. 
Some yield to one, some to the other. Paul yielded to 
the upward call of God. Judas yielded to the down- 
ward call of the devil, and you know the difference. 
To whom we yield ourselves servants to be to them 
we become servants. Once for all and wisely did 
Paul determine to become a servant of Christ. 

It matters little what the call is, what the pull, un- 
less one yields. It is the yielding that counts. Many 
a sinner has at times the best of intentions and really 
feels that he wants to be upright but he fails to yield 
to his noble impulses. When the opportunity to do 
right presents itself he refuses to grasp it and when 
the opportunity to do wrong comes along he yields 
and falls. He lacks the stable character to motivate 
his good resolves. But Paul having admitted Christ in- 
to his life made him Master. Having made him Master 
he could do no less than struggle with all the powers 
within him, to fight the good fight, to run the race 
and keep his ear open to the upward call and his eyes 
fixed on his Master. Paul surrendered himself to 
Christ and became the servant of Christ. That was 
his one purpose. __^^_^^^_ j f E< M _ 

The Better Brand 

The finer quality of spiritual entities as compared 
with physical is nowhere more manifest than in the 
case of that old-fashioned virtue known as courage. 
A noble thing is courage, of any kind. For courage, 
by etymology, is "heart-age." It is an attribute of 
that part of the human personality from which come 
" the issues of life. " 

One of the surprises of the war was the large 
amount of courage which it brought to light. " Pretty 
fine human stuff" it was, as one observer called it, 
when a very ordinary looking soldier calmly walked 
into the jaws of almost certain death, merely to rescue 
a wounded comrade. And there were many exploits 
of that sort. We need not have been surprised. Any 
great catastrophe, such as a«fire, a sinking ship, or 
the like, affords examples of the self-sacrificing 
courage which is more plentiful in men than they 
are given credit for. 

That is what we call physical courage, the exposure 
of oneself to physical danger, and surely this is not 
to be despised, especially when it is carried to the 
point of .laying down one's own life in order to save 
another's. 

But there is another kind of courage, of which the 
world has greater need. It is that which exposes one- 
self to the censure of his friends for the sake of 
truth. It is that which would rather be right than be 
popular. It is that which is brave enough to admit 
that a past course or attitude was wrong, and to 
turn around and go the other way. It is that which, 
on the one hand, refuses to adopt a new view, merely 
because others do, or, on the other, gladly accepts it 
when others decline to do so, if the evidence so re- 
quires. It is that which loves truth and right above 
all things. 

This is moral courage, better, spiritual courage, the 
kind which requires one, not to die and so escape the 
ill opinion of his fellows, but to live and face it. It 
is the kind that is content to wait for vindication until 
the truth has won its way against the weight of long- 
accumulated prejudice. 

This is that choicer grade of courage which is so 
rare a*id precious, and upon which the progress of 



the Kingdom waits so long, oh, so long. A gener